City firefighters snuff out flames that started in the kitchen area at southside restaurant overnight...
Fire has damaged the back kitchen-area of a well-known restaurant on Jamestown's southside.  City Fire Chief Ryan Rousch says crews were called to Jeremy's Bellview at 763 Foote Ave. shortly after 10:30 p.m. Wednesday... and found smoke and some fire coming from the back area of the building.  Rousch says a crew was able to force entry to the kitchen-area... and, was able to get the flames out quickly.  He adds that the fire appears to have not burned through the roof... and, the exterior appears untouched.  Rousch says investigators have determined a malfunctioning or overheated compressor for a storage refrigerator caused the blaze.  An off-duty shift was called in.  No injuries were reported.  The restaurant was closed at the time.

City man arrested on drug-related charges after leading police on e-bike pursuit...
A man from Jamestown is accused of leading city police on a chase with his e-bike... and, throwing bags of drugs out of his pockets during the pursuit.  Jamestown police say a patrol tried to stop the bike... operated by 47 year-old Watkine Watkins in the area of Forest and Columbia Avenues just after 1:30 a.m. Thursday for observed violations.  However... Watkins failed to comply... and, officers pursued.  They say they saw Watkins throwing what were later found to be individual bags of Fentanyl from his pockets.  Police finally stopped Watkins n the area of Prospect Street and Prather Avenue, where he was taken in to custody without further incident.  Watkins was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... resisting arrest... tampering with physical evidence and multiple traffic infractions.  He was held pending arraignment.

Legislature refers resolution declaring job creation the county's number-one economic developemnt to committee...
Job losses happen and will continue to happen.  However... new jobs need to be brought in to sustain and build the local population.  That was the argument by a Chautauqua County Legislator from Jamestown for his resolution declaring that job creation is the Number One Economic Development Goal in the county.  Democrat Fred Larson read off a list of job losses in recent years... but, argued not enough are being brought in to replace them.  Larson says Wells and Cummins have both taken on major expansion projects... but, the numbers won't even replace the jobs lost when Carriage House closed in Fredonia several years ago... leading to the loss of 500 jobs.  Larson also read off several others totaling more than 800 jobs.  However... Silver Creek Republican Tom Harmon recalled an amended resolution from last August stated that job creation was a "top priority..." and he took "some offense" to the measure.  The legislature voted along party-lines, 12-7 to refer the proposal to committee for the July meeting.

Borrello and Molitor say there were "some wins" in state legislative session that saw and ever-increasing budget approved...
An ever-increasing state budget, affordability, and policies were among the topics that Chautauqua County's two state lawmakers discussed Wednesday morning at an event in the Dunkirk area.  State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor were the guests at CHQ Chamber's State of the State Legislature Breakfast at Shorewood Country Club.  Regarding the $277-billion spending plan... Molitor spoke about trends, including increases in spending and policy items.  He says the final budget exceeds what Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed last January by $18-billion... and, there was more policy as well.  However... Molitor says he and Borrello were able to secure some "wins" in the budget, particularly when it came to policies that are more "anti-businesses and the community."  However, Borrello says many of those positives -- including the delay of climate mandates -- were just "election year wins."  As for criticisms of this year's budget process that Borrello highlighted include the fact that of more than 1,000 bills that were acted on during the final six days of this year's legislative session... more than half contained a message of necessity, which allows bills to be fast-tracked for approval.

Wdowiasz begins holding dept. head meetings outside of Common Council...
Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz has begun holding her own meetings due to frustration over what she feels is a lack of action by the Common Council on "relevant matters" for the city.  This past week... the public got the chance to see what one of those meetings looks like.  That's when Wdowiasz held the city's first-ever open meeting of city department heads.  She says she has asked them to provide a list of projects they are working on... something she says has been missing the past two-and-a-half years.  Wdowiasz says she would like to hold these meetings at least once a month... between council meetings so each can know what the other is doing, and needs.  Wdowiasz says there is a need to "reopen the lines of communication" between the administration and the council. 

"Fire Flow" testing being done at West Ellicott business today...
A business in a West Ellicott shopping plaza is performing "fire flow" testing today... and, there may be discolored water in the area today.  The Board of Public Utilities says the other businesses in the plaza and Southwestern Central School were notified.  A BPU Spokesperson says residents in the areas of West Ellicott, Celoron, Lakewood and westward may experience discolored water from the testing for 12-to-24 hours.
 

Gies, DiNapoli get big wins in Democratic Primaries locally, and statewide...
Tuesday's Democrat Primaries found those elected getting a huge majority of the vote.  Results from the New York State Board of Elections shows that Olean's Aaron Gies received nearly 72% of the vote in the 23rd Congressional District race.  Buffalo-area Democrat Kevin Stocker was second with nearly 28% of the vote.  In Chautauqua County... the Board of Elections reports Gies received nearly 78% of the vote... while Stocker had nearly 16%.  Gies will now face two-term, incumbant Republican Nick Langworthy in November's General Election.  In the Democrat Primary for State Comptroller... incumbant Tom DiNapoli won handily statewide... and, in Chautauqua County... he received just over 70% of the vote. 
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In the lone Republican race locally... Jennifer Schmitt won over Sandy Volpe, Jr. in the Kiantone Clerk's race.  Schmitt had nearly 69% of the vote to Volpe's nearly 29%.

Schmidt announces sentencings for two Dunkirk men...
Two men from Dunkirk have been sentenced to significant state prison time... one for attempted assault in a shooting... the other on drug-related charges.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 43 year-old Juan Cruz-Corraliza was sentenced by Judge David Foley to five-years in state prison after being convicted of first-degree attempted assault in connection with a July 2022 shooting incident that injured two children.  Schmidt says Cruz-Corraliza was also sentenced to 2 1/3 to 7 years after being convicted of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon for an incident in the village of Fredonia in October 2024.  He says the sentences will be served concurrently... and, Cruz-Corraliza will then have to serve 5-years post-release supervision following his release.  Schmidt says Cruz-Corraliza was indicted by a County Grand Jury in the 2022 case... but, there was a mistrial declared in 2024 because a unanimous verdict could not be reached.  He says Cruz-Corraliza was free at the time of the second-incident in Fredonia where he pointed a gun at another person during an argument.
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In addition... Schmidt says 42 year-old Jorge Negron-Velasquez was sentenced by Judge Foley to six years in state prison with three years of post-release supervision for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  In February 2024... he says Dunkirk police conducted a traffic stop of Negron-Velasquez and found a large quantity of cocaine following a search of the vehicle he was driving.  In July 2024... Schmidt says Negron-Velasquez was indicted by a Grand Jury for second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance because the weight was more than four-ounces... and on one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. 

Borrello and Molitor address, and take questions from CHQ Chamber at Legislative Breakfast...
An ever-increasing state budget, affordability, and policies were among the topics that Chautauqua County's two state lawmakers discussed Wednesday morning at an event in the Dunkirk area.  State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor were the guests at CHQ Chamber's State of the State Legislature Breakfast at Shorewood Country Club.  Regarding the $277 billion spending plan... Molitor spoke about trends, including increases in spending to the tune of about $18-billion above what Governor Kathy Hochul proposed, and more policy items in the budget.  Molitor says he and Borrello were able to secure some "wins" in the budget, particularly when it came to policies affecting that are more "anti-businesses and the community.  However, Borrello says many of those positives -- including the delay of climate mandates -- were "election year wins."  Criticisms of this year's budget process Borrello highlighted include the fact that of more than 1,000 bills that were acted on during the final six days of this year's legislative session... more than half contained a message of necessity, which allows bills to be fast-tracked.  He called that irresponsible because legislation can't be vetted properly. 

Ferguson pleased to see SEQRA Reforms as part of new state budget...
A north county mayor is applauding the inclusion of reforms to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) in New York's enacted $277-billion budget.  It's something Fredonia's Mike Ferguson has lobbied for during this year's budget process.  Ferguson and three other municipal leaders recently traveled to Buffalo for a meeting with Governor Kathy Hochul... where she thanked them for the impact they made on her spending plan.  Ferguson is pleased that the changes to the state's 50-year-old environmental law will reduce redundancies in building new housing and infrastructure.  He says if you buy a new plot of land for a house, it has to have an environmental study done.  Ferguson adds that if you want to buy a house that's on the property, you have to go through SEQRA again.  He says there's no need for additional costs if changes to a property will not cause any environmental issues.  The SEQRA reforms are part of Hochul's "Let Them Build" agenda. 

Spooked horse triggers two vehicle accident in Cattaraugus County... injuring 8...
Eight people... five of them children... were hurt in a two-car crash... which also involved a rider on horseback in Cattaraugus County.  First responders were called to the scene about 1 p.m. Tuesday on Route 353 in the town of Little Valley.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say that a horse got spooked while on a riding trail... and, ran into the road, where it was struck by a car and killed.  That car then struck another vehicle head-on.  The horse rider was thrown... and, taken to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.  No other information was available last night. 

Jamestown woman arrested for DWI following crash on city's eastside...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk when a property damage accident occured early Monday morning.  City police were called to the area of Falconer and Buffalo Streets shortly before 2:30 a.m. for the accident.  Officers say their investigation showed that 34 year-old Neris Dejesus-Torres was operating the car while under the influence of alcohol.  Dejesus-Torres was arrested for Aggravated DWI... and, DWI... in addition to multiple vehicle and traffic violations.  She was held pending arraignment.

Randolph man arrested for Meth possession following traffic stop in city...
A man from Randolph has been arrested for drug possession and having a suspended license following a traffic stop in Jamestown.  City police say they spotted a car... shortly after 12 a.m. Tuesday... driven by 31 year-old Cordell Wheeler.  Officers say they knew that Wheeler's license had been suspended... and, stopped the car.  Police say further investigation found that he was in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine.  Wheeler was taken into custody without incident and charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance in the Seventh Degree.

Ecklund explains process to Council about process to determine which projects will get DRI funding...
The process will begin shortly to determine which of the 24 projects in Jamestown's $10-million, Downtown Revitalization Initiative will be approved by New York state.  That from Mayor Kim Ecklund... who briefed the City Council on the process at Monday night's work session at City Hall for "The Core to Shore" program.  Ecklund says city officials will be receiving documents to read and review soon from the State Department of State... and, Empire State Development.  She says they have a designated team at City Hall including the Department of Development, and Acting Public Works Director, Mark Roetzer.  Ecklund says a team of state leaders will be coming to Jamestown to discuss the proposal... and, the process with local officials.  There will also be a tour of the proposed projects.  She says a 15-member planning committee of community members will be selected to provide input to the state.  However... Ecklund says the state will have the final say.  The process will be fairly similar to the one undertaken when the city became the first in New York state to receive one of the $10-million DRI grants more than 10 years ago. 

City lawmakers to consider applying to Appalachian Regional Comm. to fund new, economic development revolving loan fund...
The city of Jamestown's Department of Development is applying for Appalachian Regional Commission funding for a new, revolving loan fund for economic development.  The City Council's Finance Committee approved the measure to apply to the ARC for up to $1.5-million under it's Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization Initiative.  Committee Chairman Doug Scotchmer says the process of applying for that grant is underway... with a letter of intent to apply submitted back on May 22.  Scotchmer says the city was invited to submit a formal application, and will do so by July 8.  Development Director Crystal Surdyk says... if approved... the new loan program will allow the Jamestown Local Development Corporation to "keep projects moving forward, and allow for expanded support for business development in Jamestown."  Mayor Kim Ecklund clarified that the city was seeking the ARC Grant to create the revolving loan fund for the JLDC.  The full council will vote on the measure next Monday night.

Man from Gowanda arrested for public lewdness...
A Gowanda man has been charged with public lewdness and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child after an investigation into a reported fight in the village Saturday evening.  State Police in Collins responded to the scene on South Water Street shortly after 8:30 p.m. and determined that two young teens were walking on the sidewalk on Buffalo Street when an older male, later identified as 32-year-old Benjamin Cole, allegedly walked in their direction with his genitals sticking out of the front of his pants. Troopers say the teens advised adults, which started the confrontation. Cole was located and arrested, and he was later issued an appearance ticket.

Lakewood man arrested in Mayville for allegedly stealing vehicle, and lying about identity...
A Lakewood man faces several charges after allegedly stealing a car... and, then lying about his identity to avoid arrest.  Sheriff's officers were called to a stolen vehicle complaint on South Erie Street in Mayville last Saturday afternoon... and, that the vehicle had been spotted on Hannum Road.  On arrival... deputies say they located a man tried to hide in the woods... but, made contact with 50 year-old Glen Barrett.  Officers say Barrett tried to give them another name... but, were quickly able to accurately identify him.  He was arrsted for third-degree grand larceny... third-degree unauthorized use of a motor vehicle... second-degree criminal impersonation... and, petty larceny.  Barrett was taken to the county jail for centralized arraignment.

 

Ripley man escapes serious injury after being struck by train last Saturday night...
A Ripley man escaped serious injury after being struck by a train last Saturday night at a rail crossing in the town of Ripley.  Sheriff's officers... along with State Police and Ripley fire rescuers... were called to the scene just after 9 p.m.  On arrival... emergency personnel foud the injured man... identified as 31 year-old Michael Smith... with non-life threatening injuries.  Smith was taken by ambulance to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pa. for treatment.  No charges were filed.

City man arrested for allegedly entering residence unlawfully and causing domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly illegally entering another person's home... and, tampering with the victim's property.  City police say they were called to an eastside residence about 5:30 p.m. Saturday for a reported domestic dispute.  Officers say they determined that 49 year-old Wilfredo Castrillo had violated a stay-away order of protection by entering the victim's home... and, he was also found to have tampered with the victims property, causing major inconvience to them.  Castrillo was taken into custody on one count each of second-degree burglary... aggravated criminal contempt... first-degree criminal contempt... and, two counts of third-degree criminal tampering.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Man from Jamestown arrested for making threats during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested following a domestic incident late last Saturday night on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene just after 11 p.m. on a report of a domestic dispute.  Officers say they found that 36 year-old Justin Myers has violated a "refrain from order of protection" by threatening the victim.  Police arrested Myers for second-degree harassment and two counts of first-degree criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Jamestown's annual Juneteenth Celebration concludes Sunday afternoon...
The annual Jamestown Juneteenth Celebration at Jackson-Taylor Park concluded Sunday afternoon with the event's yearly Gospel Fest... with multiple singers taking part.  Juneteenth Committee Chairwoman Regina Brackman says this year's program was "amazing..." noting that everything from the flag-raising at the Robert H. Jackson Center Friday afternoon to the end on Sunday was well-attended... and, there was plenty to do... including more vendors, food, workshops and other activities -- including the Gospel Fest.  The only real hiccup over the three-day event was mid-afternoon on Saturday when a brief rainshower came through the area.  But, otherwise they had near perfection conditions with sun and temperatures around 70 to 75 degrees.  Next year will be special for Jamestown's Juneteenth Celebration... which Brackman says... by her estimates will be the event's 25th anniversary.

Ferguson says Fredonia trustee search includes five candidates, and officials aren't rushing the process...
The Fredonia Village Board has had a vacancy since Jon Espersen's resignation last month... but it appears that a decision on who will fill that open seat will be made shortly.  Mayor Mike Ferguson gave an update on the search late last week... and, the village has been conducting interviews, and five candidates have applied for that seat to fill out the rest of Espersen's four-year term.  Ferguson officials don't want to rush the process because there is a commitment to running because you'll have to run again this Fall, and then run again the following year.  He says a decision on a new trustee will be made "soon."  While that process plays out, he says the village board has been holding off on making any "big decisions" that will impact the village.  He explains it wasn't fair to make "big decisions" with only three trustees.  Following Esperson's departure, the village had only three available trustees for a period of time due to Ben Brauchler having surgery.  Ferguson says the four current board members will be available for their next regular meeting later today.

Jamestown Babe Ruth World Series Committee looking for sponsors for two of the series days, Host Family Ambassadors, and 13 year-old Diamond Girls...
The Jamestown Babe Ruth World Series committee is looking for the community's help in several areas for the upcoming 13-Year-Old World Series in August.  Committee Vice-President and Public Relations Division Chairwoman Kim Ecklund says... first of all... they are looking for individuals, organizations or sponsors to buy-out Diethrick Park for two days... Tues., Aug. 18, and, on Fri., Aug. 21.  The four-games on the 18th cost $2,500... and, the sponsorship on Friday the 18th is $2,000.  In addition... Ecklund says they are also looking for Host Family Ambassadors to serve a regional champion team as the local ambassadors to help with information on the area, help guide them during their stay, and be their cheerleaders for the tournament.  The committee is also looking for "Diamond Girls" -- who are 13-year-old girls to serve as an ambassador and participant in the World Series as a local connection.  Volunteers are also needed for souvenir sales and other areas of the tournament.  This year's tournament includes teams from each region of the U.S.. and, an international team from Puerto Rico.  For more information... e-mail info@jamestownworldseries.org.... or call Kim Ecklund at 716-664-0405.

 

Jamestown man arrested Saturday for entering home; and tampering with victim's property...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly illegally entering another person's home on Jamestown's eastside... and, tampering with the victim's property.  City police say they were called to the scene about 5:30 p.m. Saturday for a reported domestic dispute.  Officers say they determined that 49 year-old Wilfredo Castrillo had violated a "stay-away" order of protection by entering the victim's home... and, he was also found to have tampered with the victims property, causing major inconvience to them.  Castrillo was taken into custody on one count each of second-degree burglary... aggravated criminal contempt... first-degree criminal contempt... and, two counts of third-degree criminal tampering.  He ws jailed pending arraignment.

(From Thursday) Jamestown man arrested for allegedly assaulting another person, and holding them against their will...
A city man has been arrested after allegedly assaulting... and, restraining another person during a domestic incident on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to the scene about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, made contact with 48 year-old Arthur Norene.  Officers say their investigation determined that Norene had assaulted the victim... then allegedly held them against their will.  Police also say they also found that the incident occurred while a valid order of protection had been issued to prevent Norene from making contact with the victim.  He was arrested without incident on one count each of third-degree assault... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, aggravated criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Langworthy touts rural health care during visit to UPMC Chautauqua Wednesday morning...
For the first time since he was initially elected to Congress... 23rd District Representative Nick Langworthy visited the hospital he was born in.  The Buffalo-area Republican spoke with officials at UPMC Chautauqua -- formerly WCA Hospital -- Wednesday morning... and, toured the facilities newly-expanded Emergency and Maternity Departments.  Langworthy says UPMC Chautauqua was one of the several local, rural hospitals in his district that face unique challenges... including smaller patient populations, and fewer specialists and sometimes not enough workers.  Langworthy also spoke about the $50-billion Rural Health Transformation legislation that he helped to craft... and pass.  UPMC Chautauqua President and Chief Executive Officer Tracy Gates was pleased to have that conversation... and, says they are working with other hospitals and health care providers to bring about improvements to care here.  Unlike many other hospitals in the region that are looking at possible downsizing or closing... Gates says UPMC Chautauqua is "here for the long-haul."  Langworthy was pleased to hear that.

Ashville man jailed on $75,000 bail following pursuit with Lakewood-Busti Police...
An Ashville man is now jailed on $75,000 bail after being arrested following a police chase in Lakewood Tuesday afternoon.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they spotted 38 year-old James Blankenship walking on East Fairmount Avenue shortly before 5 p.m., and, knew of a warrant for his arrest.  Officers say... when they approached Blankenship... he led them on a foot chase through a wooded area.  Blankenship then allegedly stole a bike from a nearby home to help him escape.  However... police caught him... and, he became very disorderly.  Officers had to taser Blankenship... and, found that he had ingested 3.5-grams of methamphetamine in his possession.  He was treated at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital... and, taken into custody for resisting arrest... second-degree obstruction... second-degree burglary... and petty larceny.  Blankenship was later taken to the county jail with high bail set.

Dunkirk man gets 15 years in prison for violating drug possession probation...
A man from Dunkirk has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison for violating his probation for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 29 year-old Dakota Cordell received the sentence Tuesday from County Court Judge David Foley following a violation of probation hearing.  Schmidt says Cordell was convicted twice in separate narcotics investigations.  Last September 2025... he says Cordell was given five years probation following six months of incarceration in the county jail.  In September of 2024... the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and Fredonia police raided a home in the village of Fredonia... and, Cordell, and two other people were found in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl.  In May of 2025... Cordell was offered a plea agreement to participate in "Interim Probation" for the chance to get a reduced sentence.  Before his sentence could be imposed... Schmidt says Cordell was again arrested in June 2025 for possessing a large quantity of fentanyl and methamphetamine by Dunkirk police.  He was then arrested again last March during a raid in the north county city.... and, he and three other individuals were found in possession of more than 300-grams of meth... and, a firearm.  He was then convicted of failing to comply with his probation.

Falconer woman arrested for assault following domestic incident...
A Falconer woman faces an assault charge following an alleged domestic incident in the town of Ellicott this past Tuesday.  Town Police say they were called to the scene... and, investigated.  Officers determined that 51 year-old Tammi Howard had struck the unidentified victim... injuring them.  There was no word on the extent of injury... but, Howard was charged with third-degree assault.  She was arraigned in Ellicott Town Court and release with an appearance ticket for a later date.

 

Clean-up from Thursday line of severe thunderstorm's continued Friday...
The clean-up is underway... especially in the north county area... after Thursday's severe thunderstorms roared through Western New York.  Places like Dunkirk were especially hard hit... with the National Weather Service reporting a 71 mph wind gust.  There was a reported gust of 44 mph in Jamestown.  A number of trees, limbs, and power poles were taken down during the storms.  National Grid was still reporting about 16-hundred outages in the area as of late Friday morning.

Missing Oregon Teen sought in Jamestown-area...
Jamestown police are asking for the public's help in finding a missing juvenile from Oregon... who was last seen in Jamestown.  City police say 16 year-old Cameron Whitehurt is from Grants Pass, Ore., and, was last seen in the city about 3:45 p.m. Tuesday.  Investigators say Cameron has blond hair and blue eyes.  He was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt and camo-colored pants.  Cameron may be in the Jamestown or Salamanca area.  If you have any information on his whereabouts... call JPD at 483-7536. 

Molitor blasts final NYS Budget that winds up being $277-billion...
New York State's recently adopted budget was originally reported to be $268.5 billion.  However... it has now grown even larger than that.  The 2026-2027 spending plan that Governor Kathy Hochul signed is now up to $277-billion.  State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor says he's not surprised about that increase.  Molitor says the biggest reason for that increase is the cost of health care... as New York already spends more on Medicaid than Texas and Florida combined... and, those populations combined is about 3-million more than New York.  The Westfield Republican says much of that is attributed to administrative and regulatory costs, and he says nothing has been done to rein those in... with more money going to administer the program and less to providers.  Molitor says as a result, the current year's budget is $14.3 billion greater than what Hochul originally proposed.  He adds that the size of the state budget has grown by $70 billion since Hochul took office in 2021.

Langworthy says he's busy with being a Congressman, will focus more on campaign once Democrat primary is concluded...
The Democrat primary for the 23rd Congressional District will be held next Tuesday... with early voting underway through Sunday.  However... incumbant Republican Nick Langworthy says he's not worried about who his opponent will be in November.  Langworthy was in Jamestown to tour UPMC Chautauqua Hospital earlier this week... and, said he's proud to represent a district that includes his hometown.  He says it's great to be out-of-session for the week because it allows him to get back to the district and talk with residents and local leaders.  The Democratic primary has pitted Olean's Aaron Gies against Kevin Stocker from the Buffalo-area.  Gies has made the rounds in the 23rd District... while Stocker has led a quieter campaign.  Langworthy says the campaign will get into high-gear once the primary is concluded.  Langworthy won election to the newly-revamped 23rd Congressional District over Fredonia's Tom Carle by a nearly 2-to-1 margin. 

Jamestown's annual Juneteenth Celebration underway now through Sunday...
Jamestown's annual Juneteenth celebration kicked off Friday afternoon on the day of the actual holiday's anniversary.  Several activities are planned through Sunday afternoon at Jackson-Taylor Park.  However... Juneteenth Committee Chairwoman... and, City Council President Regina Brackman says the first day is mainly at two different locations.  A Juneteenth flag-raising was held at the Robert H. Jackson Center at 1 p.m... and, the day concludes at the Wintergarten Plaza downtown with dancing with "The Breeze Band" from Erie, Pa... which will perform beginning at 7 p.m. Friday.  Brackman says the big push will begin with opening ceremonies Saturday morning at Jackson-Taylor Park on the northside at 11 a.m... and, she says there'll be plenty to do with several dance and musical workshops taking place.  There will also be another live band performing at 5:30 p.m.  Sunday will feature a continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m. with a church service to follow at 9 a.m.  Brackman says the committee will also award scholarships to deserving students later in the day.  For more information... go to the Jamestown Juneteenth Celebration on Facebook.

Annual "Yassou! Festival" also underway in Jamestown...
The annual "Yassou! Festival" is also underway under the "Big Tent" at St. Nicholas' Greek Orthodox Church in Jamestown.  It features the food, music and culture of Greece... and, runs until 10 p.m. tonight... and, again tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.  The festival also features the Greek Orthodox faith.  For more information... go on Facebook to Yassou! Festival.

City man arrested for assault and unlawful imprisonment following domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly assaulting... and, restraining another person during a domestic incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, made contact with 48 year-old Arthur Norene.  Officers say their investigation determined that Norene had assaulted the victim... then allegedly held them against their will.  In addition... police say they also found that the incident occurred while a valid order of protection had been issued to prevent Norene from making contact with the victim.  He was arrested without incident on one count each of third-degree assault... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, Aggravated criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Cordell receives 15 years in state prison after violating probation and trafficking drugs...
A Dunkirk man has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison following his conviction for violating his probation for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 29 year-old Dakota Cordell received the sentence Tuesday from County Court Judge David Foley following a probation hearing.  Schmidt says Cordell was convicted twice in separate narcotics investigations.  In September 2025... he says Cordell was put on a five year term of probation following six months of incarceration in the county jail.  In September of 2024... the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and Fredonia police raided a home in the village of Fredonia... and, Cordell, and two other people were found in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl.  In May of last year... Cordell was offered a plea agreement to participate in "Interim Probation" for the chance to get a reduced sentence.  Before this sentenced could be imposed... Schmidt says Cordell was again arrested in June 2025 for possessing a large quantity of fentanyl and methamphetamine by Dunkirk police.  He was then arrested again last March during a raid in the north county city.... and, he and three others were found in possession of more than 300-grams of meth... and, a firearm. 

Man from Brocton indicted on nearly three-dozen charges following property thefts at 10 Amish homes...
A Brocton man faces 35 counts after being indicted by the Chautauqua County Grand Jury for allegedly burglarizing several Amish residences.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 46-year-old Jarrett Sikes faces charges... including 11 counts of second-degree burglary... nine counts each of fourth-degree grand larceny... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... two counts of third-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, third-degree grand larceny... and one of second-degree attempted burglary after an investigation into 10 separate burglary incidents.  Beginning in July of 2025... and, through September of last year... Sheriff’s officers received multiple reports from individuals in Amish communities in the towns of Chautauqua, Portland and Sherman that their houses had been broken into and possessions stolen.  Deputies say they identified two suspects... Sikes and 56-year-old Melinda Pelayo of Dunkirk.  Investigators say they identified items stolen... including several firearms and personal items exceeding one-thousand dollars in value.  Investigators were able to recover some of the stolen items. Pelayo was charged with two counts of second-degree attempted burglary.  County Court Judge David Foley set bail for Sikes at $100,000 cash bail or $200,000 property bond.  Pelayo was arraigned and Foley released her without bail.  Both are scheduled for a discovery conference later.
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Sikes and Pelayo were also among 10 people charged last December by Dunkirk city police following a coordinated investigation into a series of larcenies committed at local cemeteries.  Beginning in October, Dunkirk police received a report of thefts involving a large number of bronze vases and other grave markers taken from Willowbrook Cemetery in Dunkirk. 

Langworthy tours and meets with officials at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital to discuss rural hospital, and health care needs...
For the first time since he was initially elected to Congress... 23rd District Representative Nick Langworthy visited the hospital he was born in.  The Buffalo-area Republican spoke with officials at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital -- formerly WCA Hospital -- Wednesday morning... and, toured the facilities newly-expanded Emergency and Maternity Departments.  Langworthy says UPMC was one of the local, rural hospitals in his district that face unique challenges... including having smaller patient populations, longer travel times, and difficulty in recruiting and retaining specialists and other workforce needs.  Langworthy also spoke about the $50-billion Rural Health Transformation legislation that he helped to craft... and pass.  UPMC Chautauqua President and Chief Executive Officer Tracy Gates expressed her appreciation with that... and says they're also using that to develop new collaborations with other partners to provide better outcomes "right here at home."  Unlike many other hospitals in the region that are looking at possible downsizing or closing... Gates says UPMC Chautauqua is "here for the long-haul."

Rowland talks about expansion project at St. Susan's Center...
Officials with the Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen hope to soon begin work on an expansion project to help them better serve the community.  The St. Susan's Center on Water Street has received more than $160,000 from two state grant programs to -- in particular -- install a new "walk-in" freezer for the center.  St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland says some private money is also coming in from local foundations and others.  A $61,000 grant from the state Dept. of Environmental Conservation was presented earlier this year.  
 

Four arrested following traffic stop on driving while under influence of drugs, and drug possession...
Four people have been arrested on drug-related and other charges following an early morning traffic stop Monday on Jamestown's southside.  City police say they stopped the car... driven by 55 year-old Lawrence Boughton of Falconer... just after 2:30 a.m.  Officers say they learned that two of Boughton's passengers... 49 year-old Ricky Bemis and 27 year-old Charles Dean... were sought on warrants for failure to appear in court.  Police also found that the third passenger... 27 year-old Megan Webb of Jamestown... was in possession of a large quantity of Fentanyl... and, a quantity of Suboxone.  Police also determined that Boughton was driving while under the influence of drugs... and, he was arrested for DWAI and multiple traffic violations.  Webb is charged with fourth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Bemis and Dean were arrested for their bench warrants.  All four were held pending arraignment.   

City man arrested for assault, and DWAI...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person... and, driving a car while under the influence of drugs.  City police say they were called to the area of Baker Street and Prather Avenue shortly after 8 a.m. Monday for a reported assault.  During the investigation... officers say they found that 40 year-old Brook Patterson had been involved in a domestic incident... and, had operated a sedan while his license was revoked.  Police also found that Patterson was driving while under the influence of drugs.  He was taken into custody and transported to the city jail where he refused to submit to a chemical test.  Patterson was charged with Felony DWAI... and, two counts of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.  He was held pending arraignment.   

County's Office for Aging Services, and others, recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; OFAS also receives award for it's efforts...
The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services' "NY Connects" team has been recognized for it's work in helping to support and protect the county's aging population.  The county's Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team Service Award was presented during Monday's World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in Mayville.  Mike Lee with the Center for Elder Law and Justice, and the county's Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team made the presentation... noting that it offers a "front-door" for people looking for resources, support, and services in the county.  Lee adds they "pick up" the phone and help seniors and caregivers with their needs, or can direct them to where they can get them.  The "NY Connects" help-line is staffed by several people to answer questions about services... and other assistance that local seniors... their caregivers... and, families need.  Office for Aging Services Director Dana Corwin says they appreciate the recognition... and, is "very proud" of the team they have in place.  NY-Connects is a shared initiative of the county's Office for Aging Service and the Department of Social Services.  Their number is 753-4582... or 1-800-342-9871.
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The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event in front of the County Courthouse also called attention to the dangers facing the county -- and nation's -- aging popultion.  Dana Corwin says it's everyone's responsibility to not just be aware of elder abuse... but, act to prevent it through meaningful action... "through education, support services, advocacy, and strong community partnerships."

2015 JHS Grad Stephen Carlson will be keynote speaker at 2026 JHS Graduation...
A member of the Jamestown High School Class of 2015... who's also a professional football player... will deliver the keynote address for this year's class graduation.  The district has announced that Stephen Carlson... who was also a key member of the varsity football team's 2014 New York State Class-AA Championship... will speak at the Class of 2026 graduation ceremony at Chautauqua Institution on Thurs., June 25.  Carlson is currently continuing his pro football career with the Chicago Bears... and, is one of JHS's most accomplished recent alumni.  Principal Allyson Smith says -- "we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Carlson back home to address the Class of 2026.  Stephen’s accomplishments on the football field have been remarkable, but what makes him such an outstanding role model for our graduates is the way he has combined athletic success with academic excellence, perseverance, and humility -- a perfect example for our graduates as they look forward to this next step in their lives."  After JHS... Carlson went on to be an All-Ivy League Tight End at Princton University... and, was initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cleveland Browns.  JHS graduation at the Chautauqua Amphitheater will begin at 7 p.m. on June 25.

Two men arrested following disorderly conduct complaint in Jamestown...
Two men from Jamestown face charges after a disorderly person complaint on the city's southside last Wednesday night.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 7 PM... and when they arrived they met 32 year-old Jomar Tapia... and, found that he had damaged property at the address.  While officers were attempting to control the scene... they say 57 year-old William Tapia grabbed a large 2-by-4 piece of lumber and tried to reach another person with it.  At that point... police say they advised William Tapia multiple times to drop the piece of lumber... but, he refused.  Both Jomar and William Tapia were taken into custody.  Officers charged Jomar Tapia with fourth-degree criminal mischief... while William is charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration.  both were issued appearance tickets for city court for a later date.

City man arrested for menacing woman with a pistol...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly brandishing a pistol in a woman's direction on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday by the victim.  Officers say their investigation showed that 56 year-old Robert Overton, Jr. also violated a "stay-away" order of  protection the victim had against him.  Police say they found Overton nearby... and, he was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt... and second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the City Jail pending arraignment.

Investigation ongoing into shooting of woman in Busti early last Saturday...
A two men from Jamestown have been arrested following an incident in the town of Busti in which a woman was shot.  On it's Facebook page... Lakewood-Busti police say they were called to the Cummins Jamestown Engine plant about 4 a.m. last Saturday on a report of a gunshot victim.  Officers say they found the adult female... who had severe injuries.  Police say she was later flown to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania for treatment.  Officers later determined that the incident had occured at a home on Big Tree Road... and, they arrested 20 year-old Anthony Rivera... and, 34-year-old Alexander Jewell.  Police say both men have charged with first-degree assault... and, first-degree attempted assault... and, criminal possession of a weapon.  Both Rivera and Jewell were taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment... and, the investigation is ongoing.  Lakewood-Busti police were assisted by Sheriff's deputies and Jamestown police. 

Schmidt says person of interest identified in fatal shooting in Dunkirk...
The investigation is continuing into a fatal shooting last Thursday night in the city of Dunkirk's First Ward.  City officers were called to the 100 block of South Gazelle St. shortly after 9:45 p.m. and located an adult male who suffered a single gunshot wound.  The victim was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where he later died.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the investigation has found that the shooting is apparently related to "street-level" drug trafficking.  Schmidt says the victim lived in an apartment at 110 South Gazelle.  He adds that the investigation has led to a person of interest that they are currently looking for.  Dunkirk Police say the shooting appears to be isolated and that investigators do not believe there is any active threat to the community, but the investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call Dunkirk Police at (716) 366-2266.

Heavy downpours, storms, produce some tree and utility pole damage in Chautauqua County on Sunday...
The Jamestown-area saw a lot of rain... and, some tree and power line damage from a band of thunderstorms came through the region late Sunday afternoon.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers say a handful of trees and utility poles were knocked down on Big Tree, and Mead Roads in the town of Busti.  A few other trees were also knocked over in areas... but, no major damage was reported.  Some places in the region reported nearly 2-inches of rain from the system.  The Jamestown Airport reported about 1.4-inches.

Jamestown man arrested following shotgun complaint...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly firing off a shotgun towards another person and their child on the southeast side of Jamestown.  City police were called to the unidentified location about 8 p.m. last Wednesday on a gunshot complaint near a residential street.  Officers say they received several calls about the incident... and, at the scene located 43 year-old David Figueroa with a 20-gauge shotgun in his possession.  Police determined that Figueroa had fired two slug-rounds in the direction of the victim and the child.  They add that an uninvolved vehicle was damaged from the two shotgun rounds.  Officers arrested Figueroa on two counts of first-degree reckless endangerment... fourth-degree criminal mischief... and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Figueroa was held in City Jail pending arraignment.

Sheriff's Department and Humane Society announce expanded effort to curb animal abuse and neglect...
A major increase in the number of animal cruelty cases in Chautauqua County has led the Sheriff's Department to assign a deputy to deal specifically with those cases.  In addition... Sheriff Jim Quattrone has announced an expanded partnership with the Chautauqua County Humane Society to combat animal cruelty and neglect.  Quattrone says the deputy... who's been on the job since the start of 2026... has been specially trained for this work because those cases are complex.  He says it's needed because often times, deputies only receive a quick overview at the Sheriff's Academy about such cases.  Quattrone says both the Sheriff's Office and Humane Society can take on-line complaints... or you can call his department at (716) 753-2132.  Humane Society Executive Director Jane Babinski says their Vet Tech is now going with the animal cruelty deputy on calls... which is part of their mission which is to empower the community to improve the lives of animals... and, she says responding to cruelty cases are definately part of that mission.  In addition to Quattrone and Babinski... State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor spoke about efforts to create a state-wide Animal Cruelty registry... and, the fact that animal abuse can often be a precursor to other serious crimes.

 
 

Woman shot during incident near Cummins Engine Plant in Busti...

A woman had to be flown to an Erie, Pa. hospital after being shot during an incident near the Cummins Jamestown Engine Plant involving two men.  On it's Facebook page... Lakewood-Busti police say they were called to the scene about 4 AM last Saturday on a report of a gunshot victim.  Officers say they located the adult female... who had severe injuries.  Police say she was later airlifted to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie for medical treatment.  Officers later determined that the incident had occured at a home on Big Tree Road... and arrested 20 year-old Anthony Rivera... and, 34-year-old Alexander Jewell... who were both allegedly involved.  Police say both have been charged with first-degree assault... and, first-degree attempted assault... and, criminal possession of a weapon.  Both Rivera and Jewell were taken to the County Jail for centralized arraignment processing.  Lakewood-Busti police were assisted by Sheriff's deputies and Jamestown police.  The investigation remains ongoing. 

Man killed in shooting incident late Thursday night in city of Dunkirk...
Dunkirk police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday night in the city's First Ward.  Officers were called to 110 South Gazelle Street shortly after 9:45 p.m. and located an adult male suffering from a single gunshot wound.  The victim was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital, where he later died.  Police say the incident appears to be isolated... and, that investigators do not believe there is any active threat to the community.  However... they say the investigation is ongoing... and, it appears to be drug-related.  Dunkirk Police are being assisted by the Chautauqua County District Attorney's Office... the county's Forensic Investigation Team, the Sheriff's Office, Fredonia Police, and State Police.  Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact the Dunkirk Police Department at (716) 366-2266.

Fire at Lafayette St. apartment house leaves tenants temporarily homeless...
A mid-day apartment house fire on Jamestown's westside has left several residents temporarily homeless.  City Fire Battalion Chief Jason Winchester says crews were called to 408 Lafayette St. about 12:15 p.m., and, found a working structure fire.  Winchester says flames were found near the back of the two-story structure on arrival... with the fire starting in the closet area of the second-floor of the building.  Winchester says it took about 15 minutes to bring the blaze under control.  However... he says crews were chasing "hot-spots" around the two apartments for about an hour.  He says everyone inside got out safely... and, are being helped by the local Red Cross.  He says there was damage to both apartments... with mainly water damage to the first floor... and, fire damage to the closet, and kitchen area of the second floor.  Winchester says most of the fire damage on the second-floor was to the closet area.  He adds an off-duty shift of 12 firefighters and a shift commander were called in.  Crews were at the scene until 2:30 p.m., and, the cause remains undetermined.

City of Jamestown awarded second, $10-million, DRI grant... Falconer awarded $4.5-million NY Forward grant...
The city of Jamestown is a repeat winner of a $10-million dollar, Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant... 10 years after winning the state's first such grant.  Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement in Buffalo Friday morning... with several city officials... including Mayor Kim Ecklund... on hand.  Hochul says Jamestown is the Western New York winner in the ninth round of DNI funding.  In addition... she says the village of Falconer and Hamburg will each receive $4.5-million as the Western New York winners of the fourth round of New York Forward funding.  For Round 9 of the DRI and Round 4 of the NY Forward Program, each of the state’s 10 economic development regions is being awarded $10 million from each program, for a total state commitment of $200-million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into more vibrant neighborhoods.  Hochul says... "building on the success of its first DRI award, (Jamestown's) next phase of revitalization will extend from its historic core to the shores of the Chadakoin River. This "Core to Shore" vision will connect downtown’s commercial, residential and cultural assets with its growing waterfront district."  Guided by inclusive planning and bold community partnerships, Jamestown continues to build a welcoming City where residents, businesses and visitors alike can thrive.

Jamestown woman and man from Albion arrested on federal child porn charges...
A city woman and a man from the Buffalo-area have been arrested separately for sending... and receiving on-line child pornography.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo says 28 year-old Kaitlyn Seekings of Jamestown was arrested for receipt and possession of child porn... while 22 year-old Kimony Hamilton of Albion, NY... was arrested for distribution and possession of child pornography.  DiGiacomo says the distribution and receipt of child pornography charges carry a mandatory minimum of five years in prison... a maximum of 20 years... and, a $250,000 dollar fine.  Prosecutors say in March of 2025... State Police received multiple reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Snapchat users... identified as Seekings and Hamilton... had uploaded files of suspected child porn.  In July of 2025... State Police executed a search warrant Hamilton's home... and, spoke with him and he stated that he received child porn from a friend he met online named "Kate" Seekings.  Further investigation recovered images shared between the pair which included child porn... and, Seekings providing access to a 13 year-old girl in Jamestown that Hamilton could have sex with.

Schmidt announces NYC-area man found guilty for assaulting corrections employees at Lakeview Correctional Facility...
A Chautauqua County Court Jury has convicted a New York City-area man on multiple assault charges in connection with an incident while he was at the Lakeview Correctional Facility in the town of Portland.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the guilty verdicts against Windsor Coleman, formerly of Massapequa, New York... were handed down late Thursday afternoon.  Schmidt says the 12-member panel convicted Coleman of four counts of second-degree assault against a corrections officers... and, two counts of first-degree promoting prison contraband.  The trial began on June 2... and, Schmidt says sentencing is set for Sept. 8.  Schmidt says... given Colemans's prior criminal record... he'll push for the maximum of 15 years in prison at that time... along with lifetime parole.

 

  

 

City man arrested after knocking out window from downtown business... and, kicking city police officer...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly breaking out a window at a downtown establishment Thursday morning... and then kicking an arresting officer.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location about 7:30 a.m. on a report of a disorderly person.  Officers say they were told that a man had broken out the window and left the scene.  Police say they were able to later locate the suspect... identified as 22 year-old Adam Garbrandt... a short distance away.  Officers took Garbrandt into custody... but, while waiting for EMS to respond to evaluate Garbrandt... he allegedly kicked an officer in the leg... injuring the policeman.  Garbrandt was taken to the city jail pending arraignment on one count of second-degree assault on a police officer... and, thired-degree criminal mischief.  

Hochul administration member discusses changes made to CLCPA made during the 2026-27 budget discussions...
The new, New York State budget makes some controversial changes to the state’s landmark 2019 law known as the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.  Those changes were defended Tuesday in a speech at the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities "Retool’26" conference in Celoron. The speaker was Governor Kathy Hochul's Deputy Energy Secretary, Sean Ewalt... who says the change in the timeline was necessitated by what's able to be on-line, and economics.  The adjustments in the climate law include extending the timeline for reducing greenhouse gasses and changing how New York measures emissions impact.  The National Resources Defense Council and other environmental groups have decried the changes.  In his address... Ewalt  also spoke about Albany’s renewed interest in nuclear energy, saying it has a key role in securing New York’s power backbone.  He also touted one other  part of the state budget: the Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebates, otherwise known as POWER.  Those $200 checks will be sent to 8.5 million New York households to help with the increasing cost of energy.

Borrello votes against NYS Data Center Moratorium, feels there should be local control...
New York may become the first state in the nation to put a temporary pause on new data centers following action taken during the end of the state's legislative session. The Senate and Assembly approved a bill establishing a one-year moratorium on the issuance of Department of Environmental Conservation permits for such facilities. State Senator George Borrello says he voted against that proposed moratorium for a number of reasons, the primary one having to do with local control because some communities want them, while others don't.  Borrello believes the Responsible Data Center Development Act is a flawed piece of legislation.  The Sunset Bay Republican says he's not sure what the state is trying to accomplish with that because information and data from the state analysis won't be available for 18-months... and, the moratorium is for one-year.  Locally, a cannabis company is currently seeking to develop a data center on a former golf course in the town of Portland... which has generated plenty of pushback from local residents.  The legislation awaits Governor Kathy Hochul's signature.

Northwest Arena's 'The Zone' for kids to open next month...
It's taken seven years from idea to completion, but 'The Zone' at the Northwest Arena in downtown Jamestown is set to open on July 11.  The arena's Events and Marketing Director, Tonja Rinaldo, says they are pumped up in anticipation of the opening... noting that there's a "ton of excitement" about the program right now.  Rinaldo says 'The Zone' is a 6,200 square foot area designed to engage young people ages 2 to 13 to learn and get excited about sports, and recreation.  She says additional information on the cost of tickets... and, the grand opening celebration will be coming in the next few weeks.

Southern Tier announces "limited time" ale to benefit ALS research...
Southern Tier Brewing is putting out a new, 'limited time only' ale.  That's not particularly unusual, but the new brew is being put out in conjunction with the National Comedy Center and will benefit research into ALS... also known as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."  Brandon Hank is the Brand Manager for Southern Tier... and, says "Bit by Bit" will have Comedy Center themes... with proceeds going towards research and finding a cure for ALS.  Vice President of Marketing and Communications at the Comedy Center, Gary Hahn, says ALS has recently struck close to home... with board member John Albro having been struck by the disease.  One of the founders of Southern Tier Brewing, Sara DeMink, serves on the board of the Comedy Center.  A dollar from every draft pint and a dollar from every four-pack of "'Bit to Bit" sold will go toward ALS research. 

Harmony man arrested for Felony DWI following traffic stop in Lakewood...
A town of Harmony man has been arrested on Felony drunk driving and other charges following a traffic stop in the village of Lakewood.  Sheriff's officers say they stopped 68 year-old Dan Swabik in the area of Fairmount Avenue and West Summit Street shortly after 10 p.m. Wednesday.  Deputies say they found Swabik was under the influence of alcohol and had an open container... and, had a previous DWI conviction in the past 10 years.  He was also charged with open container inside a motor vehicle... no or inadequate tail lamps, and unlicensed operation.  Swabik was issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court at a later date.

 

 
 

 

Chautauqua County Public Safety Roundup: Fire, Construction Accident, DWI Crash and Multiple Arrests Reported Over the Weekend

 

HARTFIELD — Two adults and several children were displaced following a house fire Saturday evening on Route 430 in Hartfield.

Fire departments from across Chautauqua County were dispatched to 6505 Route 430 shortly before 8:30 p.m. Responding agencies included North Lake, Westfield, Ripley, Maple Springs, Portland, Fluvanna, Ashville, Bemus Point, Ellery Center, Brocton, Sherman, Cassadaga and Stockton fire departments, along with law enforcement and Chautauqua County EMS personnel.

No injuries were reported. A scanner transmission Sunday morning indicated the scene may have rekindled around 6 a.m. The cause of the fire has not yet been released.

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Construction Worker Injured on Chautauqua Lake Bridge

A construction worker was seriously injured late Friday night while working on the Chautauqua Lake Bridge rehabilitation project.

Emergency responders were called to the bridge shortly before 11 p.m. after reports that a worker had fallen approximately 18 feet from a section of the bridge onto a safety deck below.

The worker reportedly suffered multiple injuries. Members of the Chautauqua County Technical Rescue Team, along with firefighters from Ashville and Bemus Point and Chautauqua County EMS, spent about an hour rescuing the victim from the safety deck.

The worker was transported by ambulance to the Ashville Fire Department before being flown by Mercy Flight to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital for further treatment.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

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Dunkirk Man Charged Following Alleged Hit-and-Run Crash

A Dunkirk man faces multiple charges after authorities say he struck a bicyclist with his vehicle and fled the scene Saturday night.

Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputies responded to Bennett Road near the Interstate 90 overpass shortly after 9:45 p.m. for a reported vehicle-bicycle accident.

Investigators say a Good Samaritan followed the suspect vehicle into the City of Dunkirk, helping deputies locate it. Following an investigation, deputies determined that the driver, identified as 52-year-old Pascual Pablo-Domingo, was allegedly intoxicated.

The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Pablo-Domingo was charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, driving while intoxicated, unlicensed operation and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle. He was released with appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

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Three Animal Cruelty Arrests Made in Jamestown

Jamestown Police made three animal cruelty arrests Saturday in two separate incidents involving puppies on the city's south side.

At approximately 10:14 a.m., officers responded to an animal complaint after a resident reported finding her pit bull puppy with a charging cord tied around its front paws. Police said the puppy was yelping and crying when it was discovered. Following an investigation, 26-year-old Daysean Braswell-Adams was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty. He was processed at the Jamestown City Jail and later released with an appearance ticket.

Later Saturday afternoon, around 3:20 p.m., officers responded to Windsor Street after receiving a report that two individuals were beating a small puppy. Following an investigation, Arthur Hubbard and Cheyanne Alcorn were arrested and charged with Cruelty to Animals, a Class A misdemeanor.

Hubbard was held pending arraignment due to prior failures to appear in court, while Alcorn was processed and released with an appearance ticket.

All three defendants are scheduled to appear in Jamestown City Court.

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Jamestown Man Charged with Petit Larceny

Jamestown Police also reported a shoplifting arrest Saturday evening.

At approximately 5:32 p.m., officers responded to a south side business for a shoplifting complaint. Police say William Dudley allegedly concealed merchandise on his person and left the store without paying.

Dudley was located nearby and taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Jamestown City Jail, processed and released with an appearance ticket.

He is charged with Petit Larceny and is scheduled to answer the charge in court at a later date.

They’re not lurking just in the deep woods anymore. That’s the wake-up call health officials across Western New York are sounding as tick season hits peak danger—and this year, it’s worse than it’s been in nearly a decade.

The CDC reports emergency room visits for tick bites have reached their highest weekly rate since 2017. But here’s what makes that statistic scarier than it sounds: these bloodsucking parasites aren’t confined to hiking trails or state forests. Rebecca Roll with Lyme Western New York puts it bluntly: “It’s an everywhere problem. It’s not an outdoor problem. It’s not a wooded problem. It’s an everywhere problem.” Your backyard, your neighborhood sidewalk, even your kid’s playground—they’re all potential tick territory.

The risk landscape in our region tells the story. The Southern Tier sits at medium risk for nymphal ticks, while the northern Buffalo area carries slightly lower risk for that particular stage. But adult ticks? That’s where the danger cranks up to high across the whole region. Don’t let that scare you into staying indoors, though. Roll reminds us that the payoff of getting outside still outweighs the risk—we’re lucky to live here, and that means using it.

So how do you actually stay safe? Start with the basics: light-colored clothing makes ticks easier to spot, and long sleeves and pants tucked into socks or boots create a barrier they can’t cross. The Western New York Public Health Alliance recommends insect repellent with 20-30% DEET, though the EPA also backs alternatives like picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. (If you’re using sunscreen, apply that first, repellent second.)

The critical move? A full-body check after you come inside. Don’t skip the weird spots—under your arms, behind your ears, inside the belly button, between your legs, around the waistline. If you find one, grab fine-tipped tweezers and pull straight up from the mouthparts without twisting. Speed matters: removing a tick within 36 hours of attachment can dramatically lower your risk of contracting Lyme disease. Watch the bite site for a rash over the next 3 to 30 days.

At home, you can also create a tick-safe zone: keep grass mowed, clear brush away from stone walls and wood piles, place a 3-foot barrier of wood chips between your lawn and any wooded areas, and keep playground equipment and patios in sunny spots away from tree edges. Fencing and keeping pets out of wooded areas both help too. The goal isn’t to eliminate every tick—that’s impossible—but to stack the odds in your favor. Summer’s here. Get outside, stay smart, and check yourself on the way back in.

School’s nearly out, the thermometer’s climbing into the 80s, and there’s only one way families in Warren and Jamestown are beating the heat this season: water. Lots of it.

The good news? Local officials across both counties are rolling out the welcome mat without making your wallet weep. In Warren, city manager Mike Holtz announced that the municipal pool is opening its gates with admission fees locked at last year’s prices—a rare move when operating costs keep climbing. “We realize that the pool is really important to the community and the kids, and with prices going up everywhere you look, we wanted to keep our fees the same as last year to give everybody an opportunity to come out and cool down,” Holtz explained. It’s the kind of move that reminds you affordable recreation isn’t dead; it just takes commitment.

Over at the Warren County YMCA’s C.A.R. Pool (short for Conewango, Allegheny River Community Pool), the waters are already open for business. Manager Dani Mumford reports the facility opened strong despite cooler-than-ideal temperatures, with a standout crew of newly trained lifeguards ready for the summer crush. They’ve even got special red, white and blue uniforms on deck to celebrate Pennsylvania’s upcoming 250th anniversary—a small touch that shows pride in what they’re running.

Cross the state line into Jamestown, and you’ll find splash pads firing up at no cost to families. Dan Stone, parks manager for the City of Jamestown Parks and Recreation Department, credits local leadership for prioritizing public recreation. “We are very fortunate at the Parks Department that our mayor and City Council realize the importance of the parks here in the city, and we try to offer as much as we can to the public at no expense to them,” Stone said. Rising costs have complicated preparations, but winter maintenance work ensured everything’s ready for the crowds.

As kids count down their final days of school, these communities are sending a clear message: staying cool shouldn’t be a luxury. Whether it’s a municipal pool keeping prices steady or splash pads throwing open their gates free, Warren and Jamestown are betting that access to summer fun strengthens the whole community.

New York's Junior U-S Senator says the Trump administration has finally released a long-delayed report on homeless data nationwide.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand... who is a member of a relevant Senate subcommittee, has announced that the U-S Department of Housing and Urban Development has finally responded to her call to release its long-overdue homelessness data.  Part-One of the 2025 Annual Homelessness Assessment report...  found that homelessness fell by 3-percent nationwide in the year ending in January 2025.  But, there were concerning increases for certain populations, particularly a 6.8-percent increase among people aged 65 and older. 

The annual "Hope & Healing Conference of Western New York" is taking place Thursday and Friday on the campus of SUNY Fredonia.  The day-one speakers include Joseph Green and Kym Laube... two nationally recognized voices who bring powerful perspectives on connection, recovery, and the impact of lived experience. Joseph Green brings more than 20 years of experience in helping people to make "meaningful change" in their lives. Kym Laube is the Executive Director of Human Understanding Growth Services -- or HUGS, Inc., based in Westhampton Beach, New York.   She has more than 35 years of experience in substance use prevention.   For more information... go on-line to hopeandhealingconference.com.

 

A Dunkirk man has been charged with four counts of 2nd degree rape after his arrest early Wednesday morning in Forestville.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office reports 44-year-old Vernal Carpenter was apprehended around 3:30 AM in a vehicle along with a 'juvenile subject.' A subsequent investigation determined there had been several instances of intimate contact between the pair on more than one occasion.  Carpenter was taken to the county jail pending arraignment.  

 

The Jamestown Farmer's Market will open for the season this Saturday, from 9 AM to 1 PM... at a new location.  Neith Weith (wythe), the Director of Food Access Programs says they are moving to East Third Street in the area in front of the Reg Lenna Civic Center.  The change came at the request of both vendors and customers who wanted a more 'park like' atmosphere with trees to fend off the mid-summer heat.  As in past years, customers can use SNAP and 'Fresh Connect' benefits when they shop. The Jamestown Farmer's Market is a program of St. Lukes Episcopal Church.  

 

I-86  Catt County Rebuild-Short (No Audio)  06-03-26
 

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that work is underway to repave a portion of Interstate 86 that runs through the Seneca Nation in Cattaraugus County.  It's a $5.6 million  project that will include milling and resurfacing of more than 25 'lane miles' of the road. Some lane closures will occur between now and the conclusion of the project later this year.  The governor called I-86 a 'vital corridor.' 

 

The largest steam locomotive operating anywhere in the world will make a whistle stop in Northern Chautauqua County next week.  Union Pacific’s Big Boy Number 40-14 is set to cross the state line and stop in Ripley at Noon on Tuesday, June 9th.  'Big Boy’  will remain at the State Street crossing in Ripley until around 12:30 PM, Tuesday. The locomotive is aptly named, as it weighs 1.2 million pounds, and with the attached ‘tender,’ is 133 feet long.  The powerful engine generates 7,000 horsepower. Union Pacific used a fleet of these engines to haul heavy equipment in World War II.  As the last remaining ‘big boy,’ 40-14 is on a major tour east in conjunction with the U.S. 250 celebration. 

Public's help being sought to locate city woman currently missing...
City police in Jamestown are asking for the public's help in locating a woman who recently went missing.  City police say they are trying to locate 23 year-old Jena Roppel whose whereabouts are unknown.  Police say Roppel is about 5'0 tall, and weighs 100 lbs., and, has brown hair and blue eyes.  If you have seen Jena, been in contact with her, or have any information regarding her location, please contact the Jamestown Police Department's Detective Bureau immediately at 490-4839 -- call or text.  Police say their "priority is to confirm Jena's safety."

City man arrested on drug and weapon's charges following drug raid last Friday afternoon...      A man from Jamestown faces multiple drug and weapons possession charges following a raid on an eastside residence.  Sheriff's officer say their narcotics investigators, along with members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... executed a search warrant at 33 Ellicott St. shortly before 3:30 p.m. last Friday.  Inside... they found 57-year-old Anthony Jordan... and, they searched the residence.  Police investigators say they found nearly 82-grams of methamphetamine... 7.1-grams of fentanyl... just over $1,400 cash... and, packaging used for sale and distribution of narcotics.  Jordan was arrested for second and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment. 

Wendel says there's some good, and bad, in the new NYS budget...
There's some good... and, bad in the late New York State budget which was finally adopted last week -- nearly two months late.  That from Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel... who says there will be some benefits to the county... namely in three areas of the more than $268.5-billion spending plan.  The first is an increase in 911 funding, but, there's also additional benefits for Tier 6 employees.  There's also $50-million more funding to assist local counties... but, that's not even $1-million for each county.  Wendel says that money is reportedly going to be doled out by population.  He says county executives will be getting more information during Tuesday meeting with the New York State Association of Counties.  Wendel says he's also pleased to see the state's climate goals being pushed back... and, making some sensible changes.  He's also happy to see the electric school bus mandate pushed back also.  However... Wendel says there's also concern over what's in the new budget that may have been intentionally -- or unintentionally -- buried in the text that lawmakers don't know about yet.  

Wendel says some homeless have had to be taken to hotels in Erie, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties in wake of local hotel closures or partial closures...
The recent closure of hotels in Chautauqua County that have been housing homeless people has forced the county to relocate some of those individuals outside the county.  That information was revealed during a recent meeting of the County Legislature's Human Services Committee. With remaining locations in Chautauqua County now full, some of the homeless population has been sent to hotels and other facilities in Erie and Allegany counties.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says the county has to make sure the individuals are housed somewhere, and at this time, they have to do some of that outside of the county.  Wendel says he and Mental Hygiene Director Carmelo Hernandez have been eyeing a county-run facility to provide more oversight.  He says there are a number of places are being considered, including a former nursing facility in Gerry that closed earlier this year... and, there are others where they should be able to provide wrap around services.  Wendel has been critical of two hotel owners for not maintaining their facilities. 

North County man arrested following vehicle pursuit with his motorcycle...
An Irving man faces several charges after allegedly leading Sheriff's deputies on a vehicle pursuit with his motorcycle in the north county.  Officers say a patrol tried to pull over 58 year-old Michael Jamison shortly after 6 p.m. last Saturday... but, he failed to comply... and, led deputies on a pursuit from the town of Arkwright into the town of Hanover.  Jamison eventually stopped at an address on  Allegany Road in Hanover... and, he and a female passenger were taken into custody after a brief struggle.  Jamison faces charges including: DWI... unlawful fleeing of a police officer... and, second-degree reckless endangerment.  The female passenger was not charged.

Man from Westfield arrested on assault and menacing charges...
A man from Westfield has been arrested for allegedly injuring another person... and, then threatening them with a knife.  Westfield Police were called to a reported assault shortly before 1 p.m. last Thursday on North Portage Street... and, investigated.  Officers say they found that 49 year-old Sean Mcilveen had caused serious -- intentional injury -- to the victim during an altercation.  Police also found that Mcilveen had also followed the victim with a knife, causing the victim to fear further physical harm.  Officers later arrested Mcilveen for second-degree assault... and, second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.

City man arrested for allegedly choking person during domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly trying to choke another person during a domestic incident late last week on the city's westside.  City police were called to the location about 6:15 a.m. last Wednesday for the reported dispute.  Officers say they made contact with 37 year-old David Lindsey when they arrived... and, investigated the incident.  They found Lindsey had allegedly put pressure on the victim's neck and throat with his hands.  He was arrested for criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and was jailed pending arraignment.    

Two people from Jamestown arrested following Wednesday drug bust on city's westside...     
Two city residents have been arrested on several drug-related charges following a raid on Jamestown's westside Wednesday.  City police say the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... and, Sheriff's Department Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at 218 West Eighth Street just before 10:30 a.m.  Prior to entering... agents encountered 39 year-old Katiria Cruz-Torres leaving the residence in a car -- which they quickly stopped.  Cruz-Torres was detained, and officers found her in possession of 4.1-grams of crack cocaine... 4-grams of cocaine... 5.8-grams of fentanyl and $454 cash.  Detectives and Investigators then made entry in to the home... and, located 48 year-old Cesar Santiago, and an adult female.  Investigators also found a small quantity of crack cocaine... digital scales... packaging material and cutting agents. Cruz-Torres was charged with three counts each of third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Santiago was charged with one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug Paraphrenalia.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.  Anyone with information about drug or criminal activity is asked to call the Jamestown Police Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.... or the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office Tip line at 1-800--344-8702 or 664-2420.

Falconer man arrested in Jamestown for allegedly injuring victim in physical domestic incident...
A man from Falconer has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person during a domestic incident on Jamestown's eastside.  City police say they were called to the unidentified address shortly after 11 p.m. Wednesday for a domestic "in-progress."  Their investigation found that 21 year-old Jack Wyant had gotten into a physical altercation with the victim... who had an order of protection against him.  The victim was injured in the altercation... and, Wyant was arrested for third-degree assault and aggravated criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Man accused of throwing 16-month-old -- killing him -- gets 15 years in state prison...
The Jamestown man who admitted to fatally injuring a 16-month-old boy during an incident two years ago will spend 15 years in state prison.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that 28 year-old Matthew Nuttall was sentenced by Judge David Foley to the 15 year term... and, five years of post-release supervision on his first-degree manslaughter conviction in the death of Isaac Benton.  Schmidt says the sentence is part of an agreement between the Judge and Mr. Nuttall’s defense counsel in the last pre-trial conference before the jury trial was scheduled to begin.  Under the agreement... Nuttall pled to the top charge of the indictment of first-degree manslaughter... and, the judge promised to cap his sentence at 15 years.  Schmidt has requested on behalf of the people that he be sentenced to 20 years... given the seriousness of the crime.

Local Law introduced by Democrats to reduce Co. Clerk's salary in 2030 defeated by full legislature...
A local law that would have cut the Chautauqua County Clerk's salary by 10-thousand dollars a year was defeated by the legislature this week.  However... there were questions over why Democrats proposed the law in the first place.  Ellington-area Republican Dan Pavlock said he was concerned that, because Clerk Greg Carlson spoke in support of the size of the county's undesignated fund balance during last month's public comment period, he was being penalized.  Pavlock says he doesn't want to see that happen to anyone.  However... Jamestown Democrat Fred Larson said "that dog won't hunt..." noting that minority members have been concerned all along with salary increases for managers in recent times.  Larson adds that it's not seeming to deter Carlson from running again in 2030, because a correspondence was received from him that he was still running in 2030, even if the salary is reduced.  The local law was defeated in a party-line, 6-11 vote.  It would not have taken effect until 2030.  Larson later asked if a request by fellow Democrat Tom Nelson about a committee review of how management salaries are doled out was going anywhere.  Chairman Pierre Chagnon expected it to be on the Audit and Control Committee agenda in June.

Corrections Officer quick work stops gas leak in county jail...
Quick work by a corrections officer at the Chautauqua County Jail prevented a stovetop gas leak from becoming worse.  Sheriff's officers have also charged the inmate... who was working in the trustee section in the kitchen... with second-degree reckless endangerment.  Deputies say 26 year-old Jeremiah Warrior had extinguished the pilot lights on the stove... but, did not shut off the gas.  The CO that oversees the jail kitchen trustees discovered the gas leak several minutes later. 

Police presence seen outside Dunkirk Intermediate school Friday due to threat in social media post...
Dunkirk City Schools Superintendent Brian Swatland says there was an increased police presence around the Intermediate School Friday morning following reports of a potential threat to safety at the school.  Swatland tells us that the concern was about a social media post that contained a "threatening comment."  Details of the comment were not provided. In a message to school families, Swatland said the threat was found to be not credible.

 

Cassadaga man arrested on Child Porn charges following more than 2-year long investigation...         
A more than two-year long investigation into child pornography in the Cassadaga-area has led to the arrest of a 72 year-old man.  Sheriff's officers say they began the investigation in 2023... and, identified the suspect as Daniel "Danny" Wojcieszyn of Barnum Road.  Deputies say they raided Wojcieszyn's home... and, collected a large amount of electronic evidence... which was submitted to the Regional Computer Forensics Lab in Buffalo.  The Sheriff's Office says it got the evidence back last month... reviewed it... and, found a large quantity of images portraying children engaged in sexual performances.  A warrant was issued... and, Wojcieszyn was arrested in Dunkirk... and, taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.  He is charged with 10 counts each of promoting an obscene sexual performance by a child... and possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child.   He's to answer for his charges in the Chautauqua County Supreme Court.

State Legislature approves final 2026-27, $268.5-billion budget...
The New York State Legislature has finally approved a 2026-27 budget... the latest spending plan in 16 years.  Lawmakers in the Senate and Assembly approved the final bills making up the $268.5-billion spending plan shortly before Midnight Wednesday.  Spectrum News reports that Governor Kathy Hochul signed two budget bills yesterday... and, has others still to sign.  The measures signed include: changes to the 2019 climate law... pensions for more than 830,000 government employees... speeding up the state’s environmental review process tied to development, known as SEQRA; and car insurance reforms.

County Legislature's Democrat Leader presents response to Wendel's State of County Address...
Minority Democrats on the Chautauqua County Legislature gave their rebuttal to County Executive P.J. Wendel's State of the County Address last night.  Wendel's annual address was given at April's annual County Executive's Breakfast hosted by the CHQ Chamber.  Dunkirk Democrat Bob Bankowski presented their nine-minute long response... noting that while wages in the county have increased... they haven't kept pace with nine other, comparable counties in New York.  Bankowski says the median income in those nine other counties was $76,000... but, in Chautauqua County, it only increased slightly above $55,000.  He says that was still below even Cattaraugus County.  Bankowski also noted that the county has seen some 700 job losses in recent months... including more than 200 at Bush Industries.  While the number of private sector jobs has fallen... along with the population... Bankowski says the number of county government jobs is up about 200.  The county lost 200 jobs several years ago with the sale of the County Home in Dunkirk. 

GOP -- including Wendel -- respond to Democrats response...
Republicans provided a quick response to the Democrat's critique... with one lawmaker saying he's ready to work with Democrats -- if they'll work with the GOP Majority.  John Penhollow says the numbers don't tell the full story because of the adverse business and tax climate created by state Democrats in Albany.  County Executive Wendel was at the meeting... and, later offered a sharp rebut to Democrats... saying it was "disappointing in the fact we have elected members of this body who like to see Chautauqua County at the bottom of the barrel.  They don't want to see success unless it comes from their side of the aisle.  Maybe they need to be reminded they represent everyone in their district..." and not just members of their party.  
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In other action during last night's monthly meeting... legislators -- in near party-line votes -- rejected local laws that would eliminate annual cost of living adjustments for the legislators.... and, another that would have cut the County Clerk's salary by $10,000 a year... beginning in 2030.

County IDA approves working capital loans to support new fruit juice pouch facility in Westfield...
A Westfield-area grape cooperative has plans to renovate a former car dealership building and turn it into a fruit juice pouch filling and packaging facility... and it's getting financial support from Chautauqua County.  The county's Industrial Development Agency has okayed $200,000 in working capital loans to WMC Grape Juice, LLC.  IDA Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise says the entity, which does business as Lake Erie Juice Company of Westfield, will produce four-ounce grape juice-filled pouches for distribution to school districts, food banks, and other locations.  Geise says the pouches will contain 100% Concord Grape juice... and will be labeled as grown and produced in Western New York.  He says they'll be under the brand name, "Good and Grapey."  Geise says WMC plans to invest $2.6-million into the former DeHavens Dodge City building on Route 20 in the Town of Westfield.  He says most of that will come from cooperative members... and the new company will have both a processing and packaging line with mainly member-owners to begin with.  By year-6... they expect to have about 17 new workers on board.  Additional startup assistance for the project has been provided by the New York Small Business Development Center at Jamestown Community College, Empire State Development, Farm Credit East, the US Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Guarantee, and others. 

French parent company of Monofrax, Saint Gobain announces closing of production lines, and lay-offs of 79 workers...
A maker of fused-cast refractories in Falconer since 1948 will be ending three product lines late this Summer... eliminating nearly 80 jobs.  In a press release Wednesday morning... parent company Saint-Gobain of France announced it would be closing the Monofrax plant... which became SEFPRO in 2022.  The move will impact 79 union, and salaried positions associated with the plant's Zirconia, alumina and chrome product lines.  Saint-Gobain says production is expected to end in August.  The company says "this will not impact every product line at Falconer, and the facility will continue the production of its remaining product lines.  This decision comes after careful consideration and evaluation of Saint-Gobain’s core business goals and is in line with the company’s mission and strategy." 

Lakeview Shock inmate accused of assaulting two DOCCS employees indicted...
The Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility inmate accused of attacking two corrections employees last February has now been indicted.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says the secret indictment against Jkendric Agee was unsealed in County Court Tuesday... charging him with two counts of second-degree assault.  Schmidt says the incident occured back on Feb. 23, and alleges that Agee brutally attacked and injured a female civilian staff member without provocation, and then attacked and injured a Corrections Officer who came to her aid.  Agee was arraigned Tuesday morning... and, County Court Judge David Foley entered a "not guilty" plea for him.  Bail was set at $250,000 cash bail... $500,000 property bond.  He was then returned to Attica Correctional Facility where he has been held since the attacks.  The first was against a woman instructing Agee and other inmates as part of a HALT Act rehabition program.  Schmidt says "no one should ever have to earn a living while in fear for their personal safety or that of their co-workers.  Unless you’ve experienced it for yourself, and I hope no person reading this ever does, an unprovoked attack doesn’t just threaten bodily harm and one’s physical safety but leaves behind substantial emotional scars that can last a lifetime."  Corrections and Community Services Commissioner Daniel Martuscello says "this indictment sends a clear message that violent assaults on correctional staff will be met with swift accountability.  Our officers and civilian staff report to work each day to maintain safety and order and deliver rehabilitative services in challenging environments. They deserve to do so without fear of violence, and DOCCS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who attack staff are fully prosecuted."

Jamestown teen arrested for possessing loaded firearm during large fight...
A city teen has been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of a loaded hand-gun during a large fight on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to the scene shortly after Midnight Monday for the fight.  When officers arrived... they spoke with one of the people involved... and, then canvassed the area for the opposing person involved.  They then located 18 year-old Calvis King Emanuel... and, found him in possession of the gun along with a large capacity feeding device.  Police also found a fake ID number on the gun... essentially making it a "ghost gun."  Officers took Emanuel into custody without further incident... and, he was charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Carle announces run for NYS Assembly's 150th District seat...
A former Chautauqua County Legislator who ran unsuccessfully for county executive is throwing his hat into the ring for State Assembly.  Fredonia Democrat Tom Carle has announced that he's running this Fall for the 150th District seat currently held by Westfield's Andrew Molitor... who is completing his first term.  Previously... Carle ran for Congress... and, say he still feels a call to do public service.  He says no one else stepped up that has his "street cred..." or more experience.  Carle's "street cred..." is his resume of managing and turning around companies and businesses in the eastern US and in other parts of the world.  He says he's still concerned about the county losing businesses... and, 12,000 to 14,000 residents the past 20 years.... with losses of Absolut Care of Westfield, Serta Mattress and others.  Carle says in his more than one-year on the county legislature... he learned there's more that could be done if people with the right "skill sets" were involved in government.

Langworthy touts farm bill legislation that he crafted while on committee...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy says he's proud that several of his agriculture-related bills are in the Farm Bill recently adopted in the House.  Langworthy says the measure... which was approved, 224-200... included 14 Democrat votes.  The Buffalo-area Republican is not on the Agriculture Committee this year... but, says the Chairman -- Glenn Thompson -- was able to keep four items he pushed for.  Langworthy says those include the GRAPE Act... and, MAPLE Act.  Right now... the House is waiting for Senate action on the new bill.  Among the key items Langworthy pushed for in the "Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026" was the GRAPE Act... which establishes a crop insurance program to protect table wines, and juice producers due to freezes and frosts.  Another big item is the MAPLE Act... which expands the Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program to include maple syrup as an eligible purchase. 
 

Erie Co. Medical Examiner's Office confirms body found on lake near Stow Ferry is that of missing Lakewood man...
The body found on the Chautauqua Lake shoreline near the Stow Ferry last weekend is that of a missing Lakewood man.  The Sheriff's Office says it's received word from the Erie County Medical Examiner's Office that the body was that of 64 year-old Daniel "Scott" Emerson.  Officers were called to the scene in Stow about 8:45 last Saturday morning for a possible body found on the shore.  Deputies were assisted by the County Coroners' Office and, Lakewood-Busti police in preliminarily identifying the body as Emerson's.  He was reported missing to Lakewood-Busti police on Mar. 5.  Their investigation found that Emerson had driven his pick-up truck onto the lake... and, went north on the ice before going through it under the Lake Bridge.  The truck was found by divers on Mar. 16... and, it was recovered four days later.

Jamestown teen arrested for allegedly bringing loaded, "ghost gun" to large fight early Monday...
A city teen has been arreted for allegedly being found in possession of a loaded hand-gun during a large fight on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to the scene shortly after Midnight Monday for the fight.  When officers arrived... they spoke with one of the people involved... and, then canvassed the area for the opposing person involved.  They then located 18 year-old Calvis King Emanuel... and, found him in possession of the gun along with a large capacity feeding device.  Police also found a fake ID number on the gun... essentially making it a "ghost gun."  Officers took Emanuel into custody without further incident... and, he was charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

City man arrested for allegedly threatening juvenile with knife during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly menacing a juvenile with a knife during a weekend domestic incident.  City police say they were called to a southside address shortly after 4 p.m. last Saturday for a domestic dispute.  Officers say they investigated and arrested 39 year-old Nikitta Vazquez for second-degree menacing... first-degree criminal contempt... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Vazquez was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Jamestown man accused of punching another person in front of two young children...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly punching another person during a domestic incident in front of two young children.  Jamestown police say they were called to a southside address shortly after 10 p.m. last Saturday for the dispute.  Officers say their investigation found that 37 year-old Jonathan Torres had also committed the act in front of a child that had an order of protection against him.  Torres was arrested for third-degree assault... second-degree criminal contempt... and, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  

Local communities observe Memorial Day on Monday...
It was a cool, damp and foggy Memorial Day morning... but, the sounds of marching bands filled the air across Chautauqua County.  They included the Southwestern High School and Middle School Bands... who struck a patriotic note during the Town of Busti Memorial Day Parade.  A program followed at the gazebo near Busti Cemetery.  The featured speaker was Ed Thomas from the Busti Church of God... a six-year U.S. Army Veteran of Vietnam.  He called for unity in remembering the fallen.  Thomas says the love of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice mirrors that of Jesus Christ... who sacrificed himself for all of humanity.  Other Memorial Day observances were held across Chautauqua County in Jamestown... Falconer... Frewsburg... Dunkirk and Fredonia.  Each included the playing of taps... and, a 21-gun salute.  The Veteran's Day Program in Jamestown also included special recognition of three Civil War veteran's whose remains are at Lakeview Cemetery.  

State Legislature to resume session to vote on budget bills this week...
New York State's budget is more than a month and a half past due... but, lawmakers in Albany are "not even close" to completing it.  That from State Senator George Borrello laste last week... who said the legislature had approved three of the 10 budget bills that make up the projected $268-billion spending plan.  Borrello says he is hearing that there continue to be disagreements among Democratic leaders over policy items... which reinforces the need to stop debating policy during the budget process.  One of the budget bills that lawmakers debated and advanced last week was the Public Protection and General Government bill.  Borrello says he voted against it because it contains legislation prohibiting agreements with ICE, also known as the "Local Cops, Local Crimes Act."  The Sunset Bay Republican says it would not allow local agencies to turn criminals over to ICE. 

City man arrested in town of Ellicott for DWAI, and other charges...
A Jamestown man faces a number of charges after he was found passed out behind the wheel of his car in a parking lot on Fairmount Avenue.  Ellicott Town Police responded to the scene shortly before 8 a.m. last Friday... and, found the vehicle near 707 Fairmount Ave. stopped -- but, with the motor running.  Officers say they found 44 year-old Matthew Zimmer behind the wheel... and, that he was under the influence of drugs, and had a suspended driver's license.  Zimmer was arrested for DWAI-Drugs... first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... and, several other vehicle and traffic violations.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment... and, is to appear in Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

 

**(Bulletin) Body of missing Lakewood man found near Stow Ferry...

The body of the Lakewood man reported missing in early March on Chautauqua Lake has apparently been found along the shoreline near the Stow Ferry.  Sheriff's officers say they received a call about a possible body being found near the Ferry about 8:45 a.m. Saturday.  Deputies say they... along with the County Coroner's Office and Lakewood-Busti Police responded... and preliminarily identified the body as that of 64 year-old Daniel "Scott" Emerson.  Emerson had been reported missing on March 5th... and, their investigation found that Emerson apparently had driven his pick-up truck on to the lake the day before... and, it broke through the lake ice.  The truck was found on Mar. 16... and, recovered on Mar. 20 near the Lake Bridge.  However... divers were unable to find Emerson... who may have escaped through a window.  This investigation is ongoing pending the findings from the medical examiner's office.

City man arrested following disturbance at Lakewood Wal-Mart... and, pulling knife on arresting officer...
A Jamestown man faces serious charges after causing a disturbance at the Lakewood WalMart SuperCenter... then pulling a knife on a police officer.  Lakewood-Busti Police were called to the scene at 350 East Fairmount Ave. shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday for a man allegedly destroying property and merchandise.  When officers arrived... they saw broken and destroyed items strewn on the floor... but, Wal-Mart staff had secured the area.  The officer then confronted the man near the electronics area of the store.  He identified himself... and, the man -- identified as 40 year-old Emmanuel Molina- Nazario -- initially ignored the officer.  However... Molina-Nazario then pulled a knife... and, the officer again told him to cease and desist.  Additional officers then arrived... and, Molina-Nazario was taken into custody without further incident.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment on charges of menacing a police officer... second-degree criminal mischief and resisting arrest.

City woman arrested after being found passed out behind wheel of car parked in southside plaza...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs after she was found passed out behind the wheel of a parked car.  City police say they were called to the Top's Market on Foote Avenue shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday... and, found 44 year-old Tonya Thwing behind the wheel asleep.  Officers say they determined that Thwing was operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs.  When police tried to take her into custody, she pulled away from officers and failed to comply.  Following a brief struggle... Thwing was taken into custody without further incident.  She was taken to the city jail... where she was later found in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine packaged for sale... as well as hydrocodone and alprazolam there were not prescribed to her... along with drug paraphernalia.  Thwing is charged with DWAI... fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminal use of drug paraphernalia... and, resisting arrest.  She was held pending arraignment.   

South Dayton Man gets 9-years in prison on Child Porn conviction...
A man from South Dayton has been sentenced to nine-years in federal prison on a child pornography conviction.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 31 year-old Joseph Buelow... who was convicted for receipt of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  In February of 2024... prosecutors say West Seneca Police seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having on-line.  They recovered six images of child porn that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August of 2022, and November 2023. 

Memorial Day actvities and events underway in Jamestown-area...
Events and activites for Memorial Day Weekend are already underway in the Jamestown-area.  Members of the city's Veteran's Council -- and public -- were at Soldier's Circle at Lakeview Cemetery Thursday for the annual placing of flags on the gravesites of decreased veterans.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says -- specially marked this year -- are the gravesites of three Civil War veteran's who received the Congressional Medal of Honor.  Ecklund adds there are even veteran's from the Revolutionary War buried there.  In addition... Ecklund says the annual Memorial Day Gold Star family recognition will be held at Veteran's Park beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday.  And... she says it's a "very emotional" service for those families whose loved one did not return home.  Again... the Gold Star service begins at 10 a.m. Saturday.  The annual Memorial Day Parade in Jamestown steps off from near Baker Park at 10 a.m. Monday.

Langworthy pushing for Senate approval of Immigration, and House on Energy Choice Act...
Senate Republicans are now unlikely to meet their self-imposed deadline for passing a roughly $70-billion immigration enforcement bill this week.  The A-P reports that the hold-up is over security funding for the White House, and the Trump Administration's nearly $1.8-billion settlement fund that have now effectively derailed progress.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy said Wednesday they were hoping to finalize a reconciliation bill for immigration to keep funding in place through the president's term in office.  Langworthy said he was also hopeful of seeing some movement soon on his Energy Choice Act he introduced nearly a year ago... and, has been trying to get the measure on the House docket so it can be debated and acted on, and he wants to see it "to the finish line."  Otherwise... Republicans were already expected to abandon $1-billion in security money for the White House complex and President Donald Trump's ballroom amid backlash from members of their own party.  

Randolph Cental School student killed in car crash Monday...
The Randolph School District is mourning the loss of a 17-year-old High School Junior killed in a recent car crash.  The Post-Journal is reporting that School Superintendent Kaine Kelly sent a note home with students Tuesday and posted the letter on the district's Facebook Page.  Kelly said -- "we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and loved ones.  Our thoughts, prayers and support are with them during this incredibly difficult time."  State Police say the accident occured on Route 62 at Waterboro Hill Road in Conewango shortly before 4 p.m. Monday.  The 17 year-old has been identified in an obituary from the Van Renssalaer and Son Funeral Home as Tyler See.
 
 

Imagine showing up to class one morning and discovering that the entire reason you chose your college just got eliminated. That’s the gut punch SUNY Fredonia students are facing this May as the university announced cuts to 10 undergraduate programs, four graduate programs, and seven minors—all in the name of closing an $8.1 million structural deficit.

The numbers look small on paper. About 111 students are enrolled across these programs as majors, and roughly 60 in associated minors—less than 5% of Fredonia’s total student population, according to university leadership. But percentages don’t tell the real story. For seniors like Tatum Erickson, a Communications-Audio/Radio major and production director for Fredonia Radio Systems, the cuts represent something far more personal: the dismantling of a pathway she specifically chose Fredonia to follow. As Erickson put it plainly, if that major hadn’t existed when she applied, she wouldn’t have come to the school at all.

This isn’t the first time Fredonia has wielded the budget axe. The university previously cut 13 programs, including Philosophy and Early Childhood Education. Hunter Halterman, a 2024 graduate of the Audio/Radio program, watched those earlier cuts unfold. He credits the program’s professors and classes with teaching him the technical backbone of radio work—the deep knowledge about levels, EQing, and production craft that doesn’t materialize out of thin air. Now he’s watching the same major that shaped his career disappear for incoming students. As he sees it, the real question isn’t whether the university can trim 5% of enrollments; it’s whether Fredonia can survive if it keeps betting that cutting programs strengthens the institution rather than weakening it.

Dr. Stephen H. Kolison Jr., SUNY Fredonia’s president, has framed these decisions as necessary medicine. The university is working toward balancing its budget by the 2028-2029 fiscal year, he explained, and holding onto programs with declining student demand only delays the reckoning. He’s also been clear that the on-campus radio station will survive, funded through student accounts rather than the academic department. That’s something, at least.

But the timing—and the messaging—have rubbed students the wrong way. The announcement came after commencement, when most students had scattered across the state and country. For Erickson and others, the decision to release this information after the semester ended felt deliberate, a way to sidestep the campus confrontation that erupted during previous cuts. Kolison pushed back, noting that consultations ran right up through the Friday before the announcement, but his explanation doesn’t change how it landed.

The real worry, though, goes deeper than program cuts or administrative optics. It’s about ripple effects. When technical expertise walks out the door because there’s no major pipeline feeding talent into the radio station and other campus media, something intangible gets lost. The knowledge transfer, the mentorship, the culture of production excellence—that stuff doesn’t happen by accident. And once it’s gone, it’s not always easy to rebuild.

City man arrested on multiple drug possession charges following raid on Euclid Ave. apartment...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on drug-related charges following a raid on a northside apartment earlier this week.  Jamestown police say members of the JPD Metro Drug Task Force... along with Chautauqua County Sheriffs Office Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at Apt. 209 at 28 Euclid Ave. shortly before 1 p.m.  Inside... they located 30 year-old Tyler Perrin... along with a female.  Detectives searched... and found 26.5 grams of methamphetamine... 18.4-grams of fentanyl... 6.6-grams of crack cocaine, digital scales and packaging materials.  They also allegedly found $170 in cash proceeds.  Perrin is charged with four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of fourth-degree criminal possession... and two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphenalia.  If you have an information about drug or other criminal activity in your area...  call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  Or call the Sheriff's Department Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.  

Randolph Central School student killed in car crash that also injures 56 year-old man...
The Randolph School District is mourning the loss of a 17-year-old High School Junior killed in a recent car crash.  The Post-Journal is reporting that School Superintendent Kaine Kelly sent a note home with students Tuesday and posted the letter on the district's Facebook Page.  In it, Kelly said -- "we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and loved ones.  Our thoughts, prayers and support are with them during this incredibly difficult time."  State Police say the accident occured on Route 62 at Waterboro Hill Road in Conewango shortly before 4 p.m. Monday.  The 17 year-old was in the car with a 56 year-old man from Randolph.

JPS District voters approve 2026-27 no tax increase budget, and school board members...
Voters in the Jamestown Public School district have approved a $120.8-million budget by about a 4-to-1 margin.  The district reports that 374 people voted yes on the spending plan to 92 against.  District officials were able to bring in another no tax levy increase.  In addition... voters also approved selling excess district property on Harrison Street to the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities, 432-31.  The funding increase for the Prendergast Library was approved, 333-131.  New school board member Carm Proctor was leading vote getter with 388 tallies... and incumbants Paul Abbott and Christine Schnars were both unopposed, and re-elected.  

SWCS voters approved budget, and propositions overwhelmingly...
Voters in the Southwestern Central School District overwhelmingly approved a 2026-27 budget... and, all four propositions on the ballot.  First-year School Superintendent Molly Moore was pleased with the outcome... and expressed her appreciation to the community for it's support... for everything from concerts to the budget.  The $37.1-million spending plan was approved, 225-57.  She also looks forward to beginning the new, $8.1-million capital project... which will mainly involve the elementary school.  It passed, 225-56.  Four new buses were part of a nearly $792,000 transportation proposition... which was approved, 227-54.
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The fourth proposition to fund the Lakewood and Hazeltine Libraries... was adopted, 216-64.  As for the school board... two newcomers -- Zach Agett and Shane Uber have been elected.   Uber was the leading voter getter with 228 votes... while Agett had 223... and, incumbant Troy Durnell received 199.

The other 16 school budgets are adopted... some of the details...
In the Falconer school district... voters approved a 2026-27 budget, 110-15... and, a capital improvement project, 110-15.  Heather Cardot ran unopposed for the school board.

Voters in the Panama school district approved a $14.7-million budget, 100-28... while a transportation proposition was adopted, 92-to-38.  Betsy Eggleston was elected to the school board.

In Bemus Point... district voters approved their budget, 143-53.  They also approved a bus proposition, 133-65... and, a capital project, 141-59.  Michael Burns and Elizabeth Healy were elected to the school board.

At Chautauqua Lake... residents approved the new budget, 199-78... and Travis Bensink... Jennifer Obert and Ken Shearer, Jr. were elected to the school board.

In Clymer... the 2026-27 budget was approved, 86-8... and, Ed Mulkearn and Bethany Collins ran unopposed for the school board.

City man arrested for allegedly trying to enter parked vehicles in northeast area of Jamestown...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trying to enter parked vehicles on the city's northeast corner.  Jamestown police say they responded to a report of a man attempting to enter vehicles about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday.  Officers located 19 year-old Connor Dale... who matched the description of the suspect.  Police knew of active bench warrants against Dale as well... and, he was found in possession of a narcotic drug.  He was taken into custody on the warrants... and one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Dale was held pending arraignment.

Langworthy again blasts state Democrats after new attacks on Corrections Officers at Collins Correctional Facility...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy is blasting Governor Kathy Hochul and State Legislature Democrats for recent attacks on corrections officers.  The latest incident occured at the Collins Correctional Facility.  Langworthy says the attacks reports at Collins -- "is exactly what we have been warning Governor Hochul and Albany Democrats would happen when they rammed through the disastrous HALT Act and ignored repeated warnings about deteriorating safety conditions inside New York prisons."  The Buffalo-area Republican adds that since the HALT Act has been in place... "corrections officers have been treated worse than the violent criminals they are tasked with supervising."