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WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 30, 2018

Two Jamestown men have been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of drugs, as well as a loaded handgun in a parking lot at Jamestown Community College Thursday night....  

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says a patrol was checking out the area on Falconer Street about 10 p.m. and, checked on a suspicious vehicle with several people inside.  Officers found several items littering the ground near the car and, called in a K-9 unit to search the vehicle.  Police found a small amount of marijuana and, a 22-calibur handgun under the passenger seat.  Samuelson says 18 year-old Andre Richards -- a former JCC student -- was arrested for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and Felony possession of a weapon on school grounds.  He was also charged with trespassing.  Samuelson says 21 year-old Damone McNamee was arrested for unlawful possession of marijuana. 


A Westfield man has been indicted on two counts of second-degree murder in connection with a 10 year-old homicide case in the village of Westfield...  

District Attorney Patrick Swanson announced Thursday that 31 year-old Rance Freeman, Junior was arraigned on the two counts for the death of 55 year-old Jeffrey Johnson.  Swanson says Johnson was found dead in his home on November 8 of 2008, the cause was not included in the press release.  However, the D-A extended his thanks to Westfield Police and the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office for their "continued efforts in investigating this case."  Freeman pleaded not guilty to the charges and, was remanded to the County Jail on $500,000 cash bail pending a future court appearance.

 

Chautauqua County has been awarded $1.2 million through New York State's Municipal Restructuring Fund to develop a Water and Wastewater Cooperative....  

County Executive George Borrello says the project was originally included in the 2017 Municipal Consolidation and Efficiency Competition.  Borrello says the funding will be released in phases, provided the project continues to advance, with the Phase-One award of up to $50,000 to develop a formal project plan and structure.

 
Three members of the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department -- one of them a deputy -- have received the Sheriff's Award for Excellence in helping to save three people....  

Sheriff Joe Gerace presented the awards at the beginning of this week's legislature meeting, including one to Deputy Adam McAdoo, who saved the life of an eight-month old child who stopped breathing at the Mayville Diner back on November 8.  Gerace says McAdoo was having lunch when he heard the child's mother scream. McAdoo used "back-blows" to get the child breathing again.

Gerace also presented an Award of Excellence to two dispatchers, one who is out on maternity leave.  He says Kim Muscato took a 9-1-1 call November 9 from a mother whose four-week-old baby had stopped breathing.  Gerace says he heard Muscato -- over his car radio -- calmly instruct the parents on how to do CPR on the child.  Gerace also recognized Dispatcher Steven Jagoda, who took a call from a "very upset" woman on September 16.  He says her husband had stopped breathing and Jagoda was able to help the woman get her husband positioned so he could breath until EMTs arrived.


The annual Jamestown Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration is tonight!  

Marketing and Events Manager Zach Agett for Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, says the over 20 year-old tradition starts with the line-up at 5 p.m. on West Third Street between Hallock and Porter Avenue.  Agett says this year's theme is a "sweet" ode to the Candyland board game and features Jeff Smith as the Grand Marshall for 2018.

Agett says there will also be live music leading up to the parade from We Speak Canadian, as well as hot chocolate provided by Meals on Wheels, Fowler's Taffy and kettle corn for sale.  Agett says there will be fireworks after Santa arrives and helps light the tree at the end of the parade.   He says the lighting of the city's Christmas tree begins the parade, while fireworks will be displayed above the Spring Street parking ramp about 8:00.  The Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration is sponsored by the Resource Center. 


Democratic members of the Congressional "Problem Solver's Caucus" have struck a deal with the new majority leadership to change House rules regarding bi-partisan bills to pass....  

That from Republican Problem Solver's co-chairman Tom Reed, who says the changed were agreed to by Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Rules Committee Ranking Member Jim McGovern.  Reed says "these rule changes represent a hopeful and substantial breakthrough to empower the people we represent, enable rank-and-file members to truly govern and, make it easier for bipartisan bills to pass." The eight measures include a "consensus calendar" which states a bill with 290 co-sponsors needs to be reported out of committee within a 25-day period.  If not, it will go onto a new calendar until the bill is considered.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 29, 2018

Nearly two feet of snow has piled up in southwestern New York, where a winter storm finally moved out last night....  

The National Weather Service in Buffalo says the city of Jamestown received nearly 18-inches by 8 a.m. yesterday and, that led to school and other closings across Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties.  Perrysburg in northern Cattaraugus wound up with more than 30-inches of new snow since late Monday, while Randolph reported about 24-inches by last night.  We also had an unofficial report of nearly two-feet in Sherman in western Chautauqua County.


A resolution that would allow Chautauqua County District Attorney Patrick Swanson to hire qualified Assistant D-A's from outside of the county was defeated by lawmakers at last night's meeting....  

The measure, which would allow the assistants to be hired from "adjoining counties" was rejected, 12-5, along party lines.  All 12 Republicans voted against the proposal, noting that they didn't want to encourage hiring ADA's from outside the county.  Jamestown Democrat Charles Nazzaro emphasized that hiring locally is always the goal.

However, Sheridan Republican Terry Niebel pointed out what an official with the Jamestown Bar Association said earlier when she said that -- when positions are open -- Swanson has not availed himself of ways to find more local applicants, including the county's Human Resources Department.  Niebel adds that Swanson also has a website, but there is nothing on it about how to apply for positions.  It was noted in the measure that several other counties in upstate New York, including Yates and Wyoming, have been authorized to hired Assistant DAs who reside in adjoining counties. 


County lawmakers last night did table what was an emergency resolution to use just over $25,000 from the county's two-percent bed tax to help clean-up the huge "weed mass" in Chautauqua Lake...  

Legislator Jay Gould of North Harmony noted two reasons for delaying action on the measure.  Gould says the main one is the early onset of Winter weather, which doesn't allow the use of weed harvesters by the Chautauqua Lake Association in Burtis Bay.  He adds that -- since it's no longer an emergency resolution -- it would go back through the committee process.  The vote was unanimous.  The move will also allow the project to be bid out. 


New York lawmakers are taking a close look at state spending on agricultural programs....  

The state Assembly's agriculture committee is undertaking the review as the Legislature prepares to return to Albany in January to begin work on the next year's budget.  Agriculture is one of the state's leading industries, with apples, grain and dairy products as some of the leading products.  Each year lawmakers set aside millions of dollars in the state budget to support programs that conserve land, protect water sources and help farmers.  The committee has scheduled a public hearing Wednesday in Albany to go over how the money is being spent, with an eye toward improvements in next year's budget.  The full Legislature will reconvene at the state Capitol in early January.


President Trump says he will shut-down the government next week if there's no funding for a border wall in the latest continuing resolution lawmakers need to act on by December 7...  

However, local Congressman Tom Reed says he doesn't believe it will come down to that.  Reed says the possible shut-down is the major issue facing lawmakers right now, but he feels if it's part of a "border security" measure, a shut-dow will be avoided.

Reed says he believes lawmakers will be able to approve a package that deals with improved security in light of what's happening now at the southern border.  Otherwise, the Corning Republican says the other issues to be hammered out include a new Farm Bill, additional tax reform and a full disaster package to deal with the California wildfires, and hurricanes up and down the East Coast.  Reed made his comments for his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.

 
A Jamestown woman faces assault charges following an alleged stabbing Tuesday morning....  

City Police were called to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital about 8:30 a.m. and found that the unidentified victim was stabbed during a domestic incident that occurred earlier on Windsor Street.  The suspect -- who was also at the hospital -- was identified as 33 year-old Damaris Lopez-Mendoza and arrested for second-degree assault.  She was taken to city pending arraignment.  The victim was treated and released. 


Four police departments from across the region have been honored with the AAA's most prestigeous traffic safety and education award....  

East Central AAA Regional Spokewoman Teri Rae Anthony was in Lakewood for a Wednesday luncheon to present their Platinum, and other awards to nine regional departments.  Anthony says they annually honor those departments who put on program to increase road safety, including seat belt use and problems with driving while intoxicated.

Anthony says the Platinum Awards were presented to the Jamestown and St. Marys, Pennsylvania departments, along with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, and New York State Police based in Jamestown.  There were also four agencies that got Gold Awards -- which are the next level.  They are the Youngsville and Warren Police Departments and, the Warren and Elk County Sheriff's Departments.  The Silver Award went to the Conewango Police Department in Warren County. 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 28, 2018

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello is issuing a travel advisory for Chautauqua County due to weather conditions.... 

Speaking to Dennis Webster this morning, he says Department of Public Facilities Director Brad Bentley is estimating about one-inch an hour is falling, with the most accumulation across the Chautauqua Ridge south.  With blizzard-like conditions this early in the season, Borello says snow crews are doing the best they can.

Borello says representatives from Homeland Security are also here in the county to assist with snow removal at the direction of Governor Andrew Cuomo.  Individuals who are traveling are advised to slow down and use extreme caution. The National Weather Service in Buffalo has Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through 6 p.m. tonight.  


An unidentified man is being sought after he allegedly held up the Dollar General Store in Warren County's Pine Grove Township last weekend....  

State Police in Warren say the white male had his face covered as he entered the store on Route 62 shortly after 2 p.m. last Sunday afternoon.  Troopers say the man was wearing camoflage pants, and a greenish colored hoodie.  He allegedly demanded cash from the register, and left with an undisclosed amount of money.  He was last seen driving north on Route 62 in what appeared to be a blue Ford Explorer with tan trim.  Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call State Police at (814)728-3600.

 

Some places in Chautauqua County are looking at upwards of a foot and a half of snow by tonight that's causing tough travel conditions and power outages across the region...  

The National Weather Service in Buffalo is continuing a Winter Storm Warning through 6:00 tonight and -- as the snow continues to pile up -- Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace says you may want to consider putting off a trip if it's not necessary.

Route 60 was closed earl Tuesday morning in both directions from Route 83 near Laona to Bard Road in Cassadaga because of a disabled tractor-trailer.  Meanwhile, a slew of accidents were reported throughout the county including one that shut-down a portion of Interstate-90 near Silver Creek.


New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is again dismissing talk that he will run for president....  

Asked about a possible presidential run on New York City public radio Tuesday, Cuomo said he is ruling out the idea.  The Democrat won a third term earlier this month and has repeatedly said he isn't planning to run for the White House in 2020.  Before the election he said only his own death would prevent him from finishing a third term as governor.  Cuomo's repeated denials haven't ended the speculation.  The Associated Press reported last week that Cuomo has contacted some Democrats in Iowa, home to the influential Iowa Caucus.  Cuomo dismissed the report as false.  He said Tuesday that Democrats need someone with both experience and credibility to beat President Donald Trump.


Some lengthy negotiations and a lot of "give and take..." has allowed the city of Jamestown and it's Board of Public Utilities to reach a new water and sewer agreement with the town of Ellicott...  

The BPU approved the agreement during it's regular meeting Monday afternoon and, City Council approved the proposal unanimously at Monday night's meeting.  Mayor Sam Teresi, who is also BPU President, says he voted for the new agreement at the BPU meeting because it's "good for the city."  Customers will now pay 200-percent of the city rate and he says this new, 10-year deal is unique.

Teresi says the 200-percent payment rate on water is in-line with what they have with the village of Lakewood, towns of Busti and North Harmony and, parts of the town of Kiantone.  In return, the BPU and the city will be providing maintenance and repair services for the town's water and sewer lines.  Teresi and Ellicott Town Supervisor Pat McLaughlin will now sign the new municipal agreement.


The homeless, and others in need of shelter with the arrival of cold weather was the focus of "Giving Tuesday" across the Jamestown-area....  

The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County pushed donors to help several local programs that helps people in need of housing.  That from United Way Coordinator of Marketing and Resource Development Cynde Johnson, who says prizes were being offered to people who donate to programs like the UCAN City Mission and, The Salvation Army's Anew Center.

The phone number for the United Way is 483-1561.  Johnson says the UCAN City Mission alone has provided more than 4,000 safe and secure bed nights to homeless men so far this year.  Giving Tuesday also high-lighted the work of the YWCA in Jamestown's Transitions program for women as part of #NYGivesDay.  


A Democrat who came close to unseating indicted Republican Chris Collins in New York's most conservative congressional district has formally conceded....  

Nate McMurray told reporters Monday he's decided against pursuing a recount or possible legal action after losing in the western New York district by less than a percentage point.  Instead, he announced the creation of a grassroots organization, "Fight Like Hell", that McMurray says will be a voice for people who feel disenfranchised or apathetic toward politics.  McMurray, the town supervisor of the town of Grand Island, says his concession comes with "some regret."   He says he'll run for office again "when the time is right."  Collins is scheduled to stand trial in 2020 after pleading not guilty to federal charges of insider trading and lying to the FBI.


Authorities in western New York are seeking the public's help in finding the driver of a pickup truck that struck a sheriff's deputy after last Sunday's Buffalo Bills game, leaving him with a serious arm injury....  

The Erie County Sheriff's Office says the deputy was directing traffic at Big Tree Road and Route 219 in Orchard Park around 4:30 p.m. Sunday when he was hit by a dark-colored Ford F-250 pickup with a full, rear window hunting-related decal.  Deputies say the vehicle continued traveling east on Big Tree Road and turned left onto Route 219 and drove north.  The deputy was taken to a Buffalo hospital for treatment.  Deputies asking anyone who may have seen the vehicle or knows of a similar truck to call the sheriff's office.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 27, 2018

There is now a Winter Storm Warning in effect for much of western New York -- including Chautauqua County -- through early Wednesday evening...  

With that, the National Weather Service is calling for a large amount of the white stuff in Chautauqua County.  That from Forecaster Aaron Reynolds with the weather service's Buffalo office, who says it started with dropping temperatures and rain changing to snow.

Reynolds says a low pressure system to our west is what's bringing the snowfall.  He says it will slow-down once it reaches New England and, that will touch off lake effect snow off Lake Erie.  Reynolds says the snowfall is expected to taper off about late afternoon on Wednesday.  The National Weather Service asks motorists to prepare for travel accordingly.  


After some brief -- but heated debate -- the Jamestown City Council last night approved a nearly $36-million budget for 2019 with no amendments....  

First-year Councilman Andrew Liuzzo did try to offer some last minute amendments, arguing that only Police Chief Harry Snellings took his proposal to cut two-percent from his proposed spending plan seriously.  Liuzzo says he heard from no other department heads on the matter, but wanted to at least consider a further, smaller across-the-board cut.

That triggered a back-and-forth with Finance Committee Chairman Tony Dolce, and committee member Kim Ecklund, who accused Liuzzo of last-minute grandstanding without having followed through on getting the information needed for council to consider.  The proposed amendments by Liuzzo went no further and, the budget was approved 7-1 with Liuzzo casting the lone "no" vote.  The approved budget includes no tax increase.


Local Congressman Tom Reed is blasting Governor Andrew Cuomo for his support of a bill that would allow illegal immigrants to obtain drivers licenses...  

Reed says, for Cuomo to support such a measure, is "reckless."  The Corning Republican says giving licenses to illegal aliens is "not fair for the men and women who immigrated here legally, for hardworking taxpayers or the mothers who worry about the safety of their children."

Reed says he and the "Problem Solver's Caucus" he co-chairs is working to change the House rules "so we can reform our immigration system responsibly and make it easier for bipartisan bills to pass."  He says they have a two-part plan to better secure the border... and, deal with the "Dreamer" or DACA issue to allow those people a path to citizenship.  Another lawmaker chiming in is local State Senator Cathy Young, who says "all New Yorkers should be alarmed about the Governor's support of a proposal that would allow illegal immigrants to apply for driver’s licenses."  Reed made his comments during his recent telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.


There is great optimism that the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County will meet -- or exceed -- it's 2018 General Campaign goal of $1.335-million.....

That from Marketing and Resource Development Coordinator Cynde Johnson, who says they were at $989,000 by the middle of last week.  Johnson says United Way volunteers and staff have has several short meeting with local employers about the campaign, including the County Landfill, Weber Knapp and, New Flyer.

Johnson says they are ready and able to go out and meet with any local employer or agency and, their workers, to discuss the campaign and where the money goes.  She adds that 100-percent of all the money they raise stays here.  Johnson adds that they are seeing some new employers taking part this year -- including New Flyer.  The United Way Campaign funds 39 local programs at 26 member agencies.  For more information on the campaign, call the United Way at 483-1561 or go online to UWaysCC.org.


A woman is poised to lead the New York state Senate for the first time in history...  

Senate Democrats on Monday plan to formally tap Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins of Yonkers to lead the Senate when the 2019 session begins in January.  Democrats won a majority of Senate seats in this month's elections, eliminating the Republican Party's last bastion of political power in state government.  Stewart-Cousins was first elected to the Senate in 2006 and has led the Democratic minority since 2012.  Democrats already hold all four statewide offices and have a big majority in the state Assembly.  Now that they control the Senate, Democrats are predicting passage for several bills long blocked by Senate Republicans.  They include protections for abortion rights, legalization of recreational marijuana and voting reform.


A state lawmaker is proposing a change to New York's gun laws to allow authorities to search social media for potential red flags before approving a handgun license...  


State Senator Kevin Parker's bill would mandate that applicants provide investigators with their Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and Instagram passwords and access to their Google, Yahoo and Bing searches.  The Brooklyn Democrat wants investigators to look at the last three years of an applicant's social media postings and a year of their search histories for "any good cause for the denial of a license," such as racial slurs, threats of violence and terrorism-related posts.  The bill, submitted on November 14, appeared to come in response to recent mass shootings whose suspects had posted threats or ranted about potential targets.  No vote is scheduled.


Thanksgiving is over but for many around Pennsylvania Monday marks the start of an unofficial holiday: the opening of deer rifle season....

The season goes until December 8.  Hunters are only allowed to take deer with antlers until Friday.  After that, both antlered and antlerless deer can be taken.  The game commission says unseasonably warm weather, high levels of precipitation and a later-than-normal leave drop have made it more difficult to track deer movements this fall.  The commission is encouraging hunters to scout for deer before setting up their spot.  Also this year, deer hunters are helping to feed those in need around the state.  The state's Hunters Sharing the Harvest program lets hunters donate their deer to food banks, soup kitchens and hungry families.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 26, 2018

Three people were arrested early last weekend in Jamestown during a traffic stop for allegedly being in possession of methamphetime and marijuana...  

City Police say a patrol stopped a car, driven by 33 year-old Maranda Lopez of Jametown, in the area of Newland Avenue and Charles Street for not signaling a turn.  Officers say they found Lopez had a suspended license, and were given permission to search the vehicle.  They found drug paraphernalia, and several small baggies of meth and pot.  Lopez and her passengers, 28 year-old Corey Keeler of Jamestown and 26 year-old Jennifer Wozniack of Kennedy, were all arrested on several charges, including three counts each of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, two counts of unlawful possession of marijuana and, tampering with physical evidence.  They were all jailed pending arraignment.


One person had to be hospitalized after they were hurt in an apartment house fire early last Saturday morning on Jamestown's southside...  

City Fire Lieutenant Don Mowery says crews were called to the scene at 39 Prospect Street -- near the corner of Prather -- about 12:30 AM.  Mowery says they found a lot of fire and smoke coming from parts of the structure.

Mowery says first-arriving crews and city police helped several people out of the home and, one male was hurt, and suffered some burns.  He was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital, where he's being treated for his injuries.  Mowery says an off-duty shift was called in to assist at the scene.  He says it some some time to bring the blaze under control, and crews were there until about 9:00  Saturday morning.  No other injuries were reported and one person is being helped by the local Red Cross.  Mowery says the cause is under investigation.


The Resource Center's annual Toys for Tots campaign is underway...  

Anyone who'd like to help is encouraged to place a new, unused toy in any of the many boxes throughout the county.  For those who want to receive toys for their children this year, Terri Johnson, one of the coordinators, says there's something new this year-- signups will be taken on-line at ToysForTots.org by following the links to Chautauqua County.  In person applications will be accepted at the Resource Center's Administrative Offices outside Celoron on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.  Terri Johnson expects the need will meet, and possibly exceed the 2017 record of 2600 children served.  Volunteers are needed at 'Toy Central' at Allied Alarm on Allen Street Extension in Falconer on Saturdays, December 1st, 8th and 15th.  More information on Facebook, or call 661-1042. Toys for Tots is coordinated nationally by the Marine Corps Reserves.


In New York state government news, talk of legalizing recreational marijuana is heating up ahead of the 2019 session....  

Lawmakers last week held hearings on the topic in Buffalo and Binghamton and advocates are planning for a big conference on legal pot next month.  Proposals to legalize, regulate and tax recreational marijuana are expected to loom large over next year's legislative session.  Meanwhile, Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo is dismissing a report that he has contacted Iowa Democrats about a potential run for president.  Cuomo was elected to a third term this month and has said he intends to serve a full four years.  Cuomo told reporters this week that he intends to "stick with New York state."


A group of graduate students at the University of Buffalo have now issued a report that offers strategies for how Chautauqua County can harness the food system for economic development and health...  

County Executive George Borrello says the study analyzed the county's food supply and, how it can better utilize it's agriculture to create a better supply.  Borrello says the report was funded by federal grants for the partnership, called "Growing Food Connections."

Borrello says the study led county officials to seek funding to create a Food Policy Council, which the legislature recently passed.  He says they will now try to identify the gaps found in the county, and better utilize local food producers to help.  Borrello says having a strategy to strengthen the local food system will benefit everyone in the county and the region.  Community partners are working with county government to implement the ideas in the report.

 
Wegmans Food Markets and five liquor stores affiliated with the Rochester-based company have been fined a total of more than $1-million dollars by the New York State Liquor Authority...  

The SLA says Wegmans was fined $750,000 for "availing their license to five affiliated liquor stores."  The Albany-based agency says the supermarket chain was managing five liquor stores without a proper license.  Those stores include two in the Rochester area and one each in the Buffalo, Binghamton and Syracuse areas.  Each store was fined $75,000 by the SLA for availing their license to Wegmans and accepting illegal gifts and services from a liquor wholesaler.
 Wegmans denied any wrongdoing.  The company said each store is individually owned by a member of the Wegman family trying to offer "low prices, great selection and great service."


Budget-busting road salt prices are leaving municipal officials in the Snow Belt areas hoping for a mild winter...  

Salt supplies are tight on the heels of a harsh winter last year that depleted reserves, leaving many localities in the Northeast and Great Lakes to pay prices ranging from five-percent higher to almost double.  The increases are frustrating to local officials who are locked into tight budgets.  Some highway superintendents say they could choose to make their salt supplies last by mixing in cheaper materials, such as sand. And others say it could force them to defer other road projects.  Production issues at two major North American salt mines have contributed to the tight supplies.


The city of Jamestown's Historical Marker Committee recently dedicated the City's 76th  historical marker in recognition of the over 100-year-old Hundred Acre Lot, now known as Jamestown Community College's College Park....  

The ceremony was held at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, just across Curtis Street from the marker location, with JCC and RTPI officials on hand.  City Historian B. Delores Thompson says the "Hundred Acre Lot" owes its existence to Jamestown public school teachers, students, and alumni who worked for between 1913 and 1916 to raise the necessary money to buy the land.  Through their efforts, Thompson says the beloved patch of forest became one of the first school parks in the United States in 1916.  The Fenton History Center's Jennifer Champ says Jamestown school teachers played a key role in helping to save the land from timbering.
 

News briefs for Sat., Nov. 24, 2018

Several residents displaced in Prospect St. fire in Jamestown, one is hurt...
One person had to be hospitalized after they were hurt in an overnight fire at a two-story apartment house on the city of Jamestown's southside.  City Fire Lieutenant Don Mowery says crews were called to the scene at 39 Prospect Street -- near the corner of Prather -- about 12:30 a.m. Saturday.  Mowery says they found a lot of fire and smoke coming from parts of the structure.  He says they found heavy fire coming from the second-floor windows... and, the back apartment.  Mowery says first-arriving crews and city police helped several people out of the home... and, one male was hurt, and suffered some burns.  He was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital... where he's being treated for his injuries.  Mowery says an off-duty shift was called in to assist at the scene.  He says it some some time to bring the blaze under control, and crews were there until about 9 this morning.  No other injuries were reported... and, the cause is under investigation.

Flags at half-staff in NYS following Peralta's passing...
Flags have been lowered to half-staff on New York state and New York City buildings to honor state Senator Jose Peralta, who died unexpectedly at age 47.  New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio's office announced the tributes Friday.  They are Democrats, as was Peralta.  He died Wednesday night after being taken to a hospital.  Medical examiners haven't yet determined what caused his death.  His widow, Evelyn, said he'd been feeling ill and his condition suddenly worsened. 
 

WJTN Headlines for Fri., Nov. 23, 2018

Buffalo records coldest Thanksgiving Day ever...                     
Expect a warm up after the coldest Thanksgiving Day on record.  The National Weather Service reports that this year's holiday set a record for both the high and low temperatures.  That from Meteorologist Tony Ansuini at the weather service's Buffalo office... who says they had a low of 9 degrees, and a daytime high of 20... which produced a daily average of 15.  That beat the old record of 18-degrees.  Ansuini says the good news is that we'll see more normal temperatures for this time of year with temperatures texpected to reach the 40s on Saturday and Sunday. 


Borrello touts Small Business Saturday...
There are a number of small "unique" retail businesses across Chautauqua County... and, County Executive George Borrello is urging residents to check them out for Small Business Saturday.  Small Business Saturday follows "Black Friday..." and many offer great deals on gifts and other items for sale.  Borrello is touting the county's many small businesses... in particular those that have created a special "niche" for themselves... including local artisans with Peaceful Designs in Westfield to the Bio-Dome in Jamestown.  Borrello says it's been a good year for many local shop owners... but, he says this time of year is critical for many of them... because they want to be "in the black" by the end of the year.  That's where the name "Black Friday" comes from.  Borrello made his comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.


Jamestown Mayor also commemorates Small Business Saturday...
In observance of this year's Small Business Saturday... Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week joined with more than a dozen small business owners to promote the shop "small and local" today.  The Mayor was with the local owners earlier this week at Crown Street Roasting Company on West Third Street to promote supporting small businesses during both the busy holiday shopping season and throughout the year. 


Stockton man arrested on drug-charges following crash in Ellery...
A Stockton man suffered minor injuries... but, is accused of driving while under the influence of drugs... after a one-car crash in the town of Ellery last night.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Route 380 shortly after 5 PM Thursday... and found a vehicle in the distch.  Deputies were able to identify the driver as 23 year-old Robert Keech... and, on further investigation... they found he was high on drugs.  Officers say they found that Keech was in possession of multiple hypodermic instruments.  He was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs... criminally possessing a hypodermic instrument... third-degree Aggravated unlicensed operation... failure to keep right... and, unsafe tire.  Keech was taken into custody on the charges, and issued appearance tickets for Ellery Town  Court at a later date.


United Way of Southern Chautauqua County near's $1-million mark in campaign...
The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County has now raised nearly $1-million of it's $1.335-million goal for 2018.  Executive Director Amy Rohler says they have currently raised just over $989,000.  Rohler says they've been working hard, and are right on track due to their "committed team of volunteers."  In addition... Campaign Chair Kurt Eimiller added that -- "our community business leaders and employees should all be proud knowing that their time and investment is going to help the people who need it most, including the working families of our community.”  He says their presentation to local businesses only lasts about 10 minutes... and, most businesses fit it into their weekly meeting routines or start to their day.  For more information... call the United Way at 483-1561... or go on-line to uwayscc.org.

 

Clymer/Sherman/Panama win HS Football Class-D Championship at Carrier Dome...

The Clymer/Sherman/Panama Wolfpack completed their outstanding season Friday afternoon with a huge defensive effort to defeat Moriah in the Class D High School Football Championships in Syracuse.  CSP kept Moriah off the board until about mid-way through the second-half on way to a 26-to-6 win.  Congratulations to Clymer/Sherman/Panama.


 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 21, 2018

The investigation into an alleged shooting in the city of Jamestown's northside last Friday afternoon has pretty much ground to a halt because of lack of cooperation of the victim and witnesses...  

City Police Chief Harry Snellings says they are hoping to get a break in their investigation into the incident at the corner of West Eighth and Cherry Streets which occured after the two men got into a fight.  Snellings says the suspect pulled back and fired multiple rounds towards a nearby home.  Snellings says officers were called to the scene about 2 p.m. and, the suspect who fired the shots reportedly ran north on Cherry Street towards 9th Street.  If you have an information on the incident, call the JPD Tips-line at 483-TIPS (8477).  You can also contact them through the Tips 411 app.  All tips will be kept confidential.


The newly-reconstructed entryway to Jamestown Police Headquarters on Second Street has now reopened and includes some improvements for workers and the public.....  

Police Chief and Public Safety Director Harry Snellings says the work was undertaken after heavy rains caused flooding in that part of the department in September of 2017.  Snellings says repairs ended up being lengthy because the project was done in two-phases.  Snellings says there are several changes that have been made to the entryway during the reconstruction project, mainly to make operations safer and more user-friendly.  He says their command room was reconfigured, and they rewired the entire department.  Snellings says the construction work was done by Empire Development, while the electric and electronic work was done by Ahlstrom-Shaefer Electric.  He adds that FSC installed new cameras in the interview rooms, which were also upgraded.


How the Jamestown City Council is going to handle an arbitration panel's recent decision to give city police a two-percent pay increase was one of the focuses of last  night's public hearing on the 2019 budget....  

The panel recently voted 2-1 to give those pay increases to rank-and-file members for 2016 and 2017.  Resident Doug Champ says the city will likely have to dip into it's undesignated fund balance to cover that cost going forward. City officials have been tight-lipped about the decision, but Mayor Sam Teresi recently told Media One News that the city is weighing it's legal options on the ruling.  Otherwise, Champ says the nearly $36-million spending plan is "out of balance" because it still depends on a one-million dollar aid payment from New York state.  City leaders argue the state has recognized the fact the city has lost state aid -- unfairly -- because assets of the Board of Public Utilites are used in determining what they are paid.  City lawmakers will vote on the budget next Monday. 


Gasoline prices in the Jamestown-area have dropped about 10-cents a gallon over the past week, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday week.  

The AAA's East Central Office says the price for regular, unleaded fuel is $2.86, down from $2.97 last week.  On the week, the Gas Price Report says average prices are three to eight cents cheaper in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region with prices ranging from $2.88 in Connecticut to $2.28 in Delaware.  Statewide, gas prices are four-cents cheaper across the Empire State, which is good news for the three-million New Yorkers that AAA projects will drive 50 miles or more away from home this Thanksgiving Holiday. 


The National Comedy Center opened its doors for the first time during the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival...

 Since then, guests nationally and internationally have already visited the location on West Second Street in Jamestown during its first 100 days of operation.  Executive Director Journey Gunderson says that 79-percent of visitors are from outside Chautauqua County.

Prior to the Aug. 1 grand opening, Gunderson says the focus was on production for the center.  However, she says the focus now shifts to marketing the National Comedy Center's attractions.  Gunderson says they have a new marketing and communications director, Gary Hahn, who previously worked at Graceland.  She says the center currently holds a 5-5 rating on Trip Advisor, which, she says is rare in the attraction industry.  In addition, Gunderson says they will be hosting two night's of live comedy featuring Caitlin Peluffo and Steven Rogers this weekend.  For more information, go to the center's website. 


A college athlete who says she was cut off by her parents when they found out she is gay has stopped accepting donations from a crowdfunding site...  

GoFundMe donors pledged $100,000 for 19-year-old Emily Scheck, of Webster, New York, after Outsports.com reported Scheck's financial struggles since losing her parents' support.  Scheck's father told The Buffalo News there's more to the story.  Timothy Scheck says the family was only trying to get Scheck to return home.  He says he accepts her sexual orientation.  The GoFundMe campaign's organizer posted Tuesday that Scheck has received more than enough donations and won't accept more.  Scheck, who is on the cross-country team at Canisius College in Buffalo, says her parents cut off contact in August after her mother found a picture of Scheck and a girlfriend.


State police are investigating a two-car, head-on crash that occured on Route 83, just north of Cherry Creek...  

Troopers in Jamestown were called to the scene shortly after 9 a.m. yesterday morning, and found that a southbound car and one vehicle traveling north had collided.  Police say both drivers were hurt-- one with a head injury, the other had a neck injury.  They were treated at the scene, and one was transported to the hospital.  No other details have been released.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 20, 2018

BPU Water Alert... 

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Water crews repaired a broken water main overnight on the northside.  BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says crews made repairs at Washington and 12th Streets and restored service about 1:30 AM.  Robbins says customers in the area and the northside may see discolored water through this evening and should not do laundry unless their water appears clear.


The newly reconstructed South Main Street Bridge in downtown Jamestown will be opened to the public this Wednesday morning...  

That from Chautauqua County Public Facilities Director Brad Bentley, who says contractors had to work through some "challenging weather conditions this Fall" to get the span re-opened by the Thanksgiving holiday.  Bentley thanked Union Concrete, GPI, the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities and, the citys Public Works Department for all their efforts.  He adds that the bridge's asphalt base and winter wearing surfaces have been constructed and, are sufficient for the travelling public to use.  However, due to the extremely wet Fall weather, high water levels experienced on site in October and the early on-set of winter conditions in November, the top asphalt layer will be constructed next spring. 
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In addition, Bentley says the DPF also plans to open two new bridges on County Touring Route 42 -- Poland Center Road -- between state Route 394 and U.S. Route 62 in the Town of Poland Wednesday.  He says "the asphalt base and winter wearing surfaces for these two bridges have been placed.  The extremely wet weather this fall and high water levels experienced at these sites delayed the construction of the new bridges, such that the top asphalt layer will be constructed next spring with the return of warmer weather."


A more than year-long wait for the reopening of the front entrance to the Jamestown Police Department will end later this morning...  

The major repair project to the entry-way, lobby and reception area has finally been completed following significant rain storm that produced flooding on Tracy Plaza in 2017.  Police Chief Harry Snellings announced Monday afternoon that the front entry-way will reopen at 9 this morning.  However, Snellings says until that time, anyone needing help at police headquarters should continue with procedures that are currently in place.


At the request of the Cuba Town Police Department, a Missing Vulnerable-Adult Alert has been issued for an 82 year-old woman with dementia.... 

State officials say Lorena Fritts was last seen on State Route 305 in Cuba at 5 PM Sunday.... and, was driving a gold 2000 Dodge Caravan with New York plates HTH-6674. Fritts has red hair and green eyes and, was wearing a brown coat, black jeans and a baseball cap. Officials say Lorena may be in need of medical attention. Information indicates she was on North Union Street in the city of Olean Sunday evening. Anyone who may have seen Lorena Fritts can contact the Cuba Town Police at 585-968-1666.


Jamestown city lawmakers reviewed the three remaining department and outside organizations during last night's final work session on the proposed 2019 budget...  


The Department of Development's budget, along with that of the Jamestown Urban Renewal Agency, were discussed.  Development Director Vince DeJoy says the city has budgeted $410,000 to provide code enforcement, zoning, planning and community development.  DeJoy says the majority pays for salaries, including one new one last year.

The main source each year is from the federal Community Development Block Grant program... which provides just over one-million dollars for the DOD, with another $200,000 coming from the state's HOME Program.  He outlined many of those... including projects that were part of the city's $10-million Downtown Revitalization Initiative program.  Fenton History Center Director Noah Goodling was on hand to discuss the 26-thousand dollars they receive from the city, which includes $10,000 for utilities payments.  The other outside organization funded by the city is the James Prendergast Library, which is slated to be cut in half to $50,000 this year. 


If Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi agrees to bi-partisan legislation to reform the rules of the House of Representatives, local Congressman Tom Reed says he'll support her when the House votes on a new speaker next January....  

However, he reiterated Monday that he won't vote for her if she doesn't agree with those reforms.  However, the Corning Republican says there are now several Democrats who said they would not vote for her that are starting to have second thoughts. That furthers the belief that Pelosi may need Republican help to be elected speaker.  President Trump tweeted over the weekend his support for Pelosi -- if she wants the position -- and included Reed's name in that tweet.  Reed admits that his public stand has not endeared him to some fellow Republicans.  However, he says it's worth it to finally get reforms that allows bi-partisan legislation to be acted on.  Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with regional media.


A wanted Conewango Valley man was arrested in the Town of Ellington for allegedly damaging property in front of a child over the weekend... 

Sheriff's officers responded to a residence on Route 62 for a disorderly male and, identified 31 year-old Darrin Hill as the suspect. After he was taken into custody, deputies report Hill was found to have an outstanding federal warrant for Desertion from the United States Army. Hill was arraigned and sent to the county jail without bail due to the outstanding federal warrant. He will answer to charges in Ellington Town Court at a later date. 


A Dunkirk man who was wanted on a weapons charge is being held after he led police in a vehicle pursuit in the city of Dunkirk...  

Dunkirk Police say that 21-year-old Trevon Tripp was wanted on a warrant for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Police Chief David Ortolano says Tripp failed to comply when officers attempted to a perform a traffic stop around 11:30 a.m. Sunday.

Ortolano says Tripp is not only facing the weapons charge, but he is also charged with third-degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, resisting arrest, unlawful possession of a marijuana, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and, reckless driving and six other vehicle and traffic infractions.  Tripp is being held in the city lockup, pending arraignment.


The Chautauqua County Board of Elections has certified the November 6 election results in local races that were too close to call on election night...  

Election's Commissioner Norm Green says Republican Yvonne Park defeated Democrat John Robinson, Senior for a Villanova Town Council vacancy, 204 to 195.  Both candidates were tied at 190 votes each on election night.  In the Mayville Mayor's race, Democrat Ken Shearer, Junior was still the winner.  Shearer actually grew his lead from 38 on election night to 48.  He received 326 votes, to Republican Rick Syper's 278 votes. 
 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 19, 2018

A pair of young hunters are safe now after they became lost in a wooded area of the town of Charlotte last Saturday afternoon on the first day of shotgun deer hunting season....  

Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputies and a K-9 unit were called to search an area off Boutwell Hill Road after receiving a call from the youths shortly before 2 PM.  Using GPS, dispatchers tried to guide the pair out of the woods, but lost their connection once the hunter's cell phone battery died.  The K-9 unit was called in and searched the area when the phone last pinged.  However, the two youths moved from that area and, more searchers -- including a state Forest Ranger -- were called in.  They soon after found the pair unharmed.


Four people are being helped by the local Red Cross after fire damaged their mobile home in the town of Portland last Saturday night....  

Chautauqua County Fire Investigation Team members were called to assist in finding the cause of the blaze at the New Horizons Mobile Home Park.  Following an investigation, investigators determined the fire originated on a water pipe which was layered with heat tape.  The fire spread throughout the underside of the home, but it was put out before it cause significant damage to the structure.  The four household members were not hurt, but have been displaced. 


Two north county police officials say they look forward to working with Chautauqua County's new sheriff when he takes office in January...  

Both Dunkirk Police Chief David Ortolano and Fredonia Police Chief Brad Meyers commended the work of Sheriff Joe Gerace, who has held the office since 1995.  The Democratic Sheriff lost to Republican challenger James Quattrone last Tuesday.  Meyers says they believe the Sheriff's Office needs to work more closely with local police agencies in the county and to share resources. Ortolano echoed Meyers comments, saying that resources are limited for all departments.  He says if they can work better "together" that will be the best for the taxpayers and residents.  Gerace indicated last week that he would work with Quattrone on a smooth transition. 


Jamestown High School senior Elyse Jones' piano solo, playing a Chopin ballade, helped propel her to first place in the annual Chautauqua Area Scholarship Program....

Elyse received an $8,000 scholarship, and won additional awards in the areas of talent and scholastic achievement.  She is the daughter of Michele and David Jones.  Surprised by the win, Elyse says being a part of the program has helped her appreciate the 'little things in life.'

Fourteen young women from several area schools participated in this year's event, which offered a total of $18,000 in scholarships.  Shannon Mc Kee of Chautauqua Lake Central School was named 'First Runner Up.'  The CASP program, formerly known as 'Junior Miss' and 'Distinguished Young Women' was held Saturday night in the newly renovated Southwestern Central School Auditorium.  (Media One announcer, Sofia Isabella, won two category awards-- for talent and personal growth.)


A Cassadaga man has pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography earlier this year and, faces up to 20 years in prison when he's sentenced next year...  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior said late Friday that 23 year-old Daniel Villafane-Lozada pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Buffalo to one count of possession of child pornography involving a pre-pubescent minor.  Prosecutors say this past April, law enforcement officers Raided Lozada's residence and seized a digital memory card which contained 30 videos and 22 images of child pornography.  Some of the images depicted pre-pubescent minors, or minors under 12 years old, the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler, and depictions of violence.  As part of his plea, Lozada admitted that between 2014 and 2017, he engaged in sexual contact with two minor victims under the age of 18 years old.


Jamestown police continue to ask for the public's help in finding a man who allegedly got into an altercation with another person on the city's northside last Friday afternoon and, then turned and shot multiple rounds towards a house....  

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the scene at West Eighth and Cherry Streets about 2 p.m. and, found that the two men had gotten into a fight, and then pulled out guns when the one suspect began shooting.  No one was hurt.  The suspect who fired the shots reportedly ran north on Cherry Street towards 9th Street.  However, Samuelson says neither the victim nor witnesses are cooperating.  If you know anything about the incident, you're asked to call the JPD Tips-line at 483-TIPS (8477).  You can also contact them through the Tips 411 app.  All tips will be kept confidential.


Two Jamestown residents have been indicted for conspiring to retaliate against a witness regarding information in a case involving a federal offense...  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior says a federal grand jury has indicted 26 year-old Bobby Hunt, Junior and, 29 year-old Amy Dean on charges of conspiracy to retaliate against witnesses, witness retaliation, and taking action harmful to a witness.  Prosecutors say that, according to the indictment, on or about last October 25, the defendants threatened to and caused bodily injury to a person in retaliation for information the victim gave to a law enforcement officer.  Hunt and Dean were arraigned in U-S District Court late Friday and, are being held pending a detention hearing on Tuesday.  Jamestown police were also involved in the investigation.  Kennedy says the charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.


In addition to Jamestown-area organizations -- like the St. Susan's Center -- a group in the north county will be hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for people who have made sacrifices for the community and country....  

"Partners in Kind of Chautauqua County" is holding an event called "Thanksgiving for Heroes" next Thursday, Thanksgiving Day in Fredonia.  Melissa Pietrkiewicz says the dinner is meant to honor people such as police, firefighters, and emergency personnel who often have to work on Thanksgiving. The location of the dinner will be given to those planning to attend.  It will be held from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. next Thursday.  If you would like to attend, you must let them know by tomorrow.  The number to call is 401-9218.


State Senator Cathy Young is making it known that she wants a major leadership role in the Republican Minority Conference during the coming year, in the wake of several "devastating losses" in this month's election....  

Young, who was re-elected without opposition, says the conference has been "reassessing its strengths and weaknesses and envisioning a path forward."  The Olean Republican says she is seeking a leadership post to be "a strong voice for upstate New York. The majority of our remaining members are from upstate."  She congratulated current Majority Leader John Flanagan of Long Island for being elected Minority Leader.  While not mentioning Democrats by name, she says that "New York City now controls all of state government and I will continue to stand up and fight against their destructive policies that hurt upstate.  I will be an unwavering advocate for our people, our economy and our way of life."

News Headlines for Sat., Nov. 17, 2018

JPD still investigating Friday afternoon shooting incident, and seeking the public's help...
City police are asking for the public's help in finding the man who allegedly got into a fight with another person on Jamestown's northside Friday afternoon... and, then turned and shot multiple rounds towards a house.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the scene at West Eighth and Cherry Streets about 2 p.m., and, found that the two men had gotten into a fight, and then pulled out guns when the one suspect began shooting.  No one was hurt.  The suspect who fired the shots reportedly ran north on Cherry Street towards 9th Street.  However... Samuelson says neither the victim nor witnesses are cooperating.  With that... they're asking anyone who may know anything about the incident to call the JPD Tips-line at 483-TIPS.. that's 483-8477.  You can also contact them through the Tips 411 app.  Police say all tips will be kept confidential.


AAA warns of increase in Car-Deer crashes during hunting season...
There are signs across the Jamestown-area that warn of deer crossings.  However... you may want to make sure to heed those today because it's the opening day of shot-gun deer hunting season.  That from the AAA of Western and Central New York... which is warning drivers about the opening... which began at dawn.  Spokeswoman Elizabeth Carey says there are a few ways you can avoid such crashes.  Carey says be on the look-out for deer -- especially in the early morning or evening hours... and, scan both sides of the road.  She says November is a peak month for car-deer crashes... because in November of 2016... there were 104 car-deer crashes in Chautauqua County. 


Briggs leaving MHA for new job in Brocton, Cobb new director at association...
There has been a change of leadership at the organization that has been at the fore-front of the Jamestown-area's fight against the opioid drug epidemic.  The Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County formally recognized outgoing Executive Director Kia Briggs for her 11 years of service... the past three as director.  Brigg is leaving for a new job in the Brocton-area where she lives.  But, she talked about when she first came to MHA as a young woman struggling with drug addiction.  She admitted that she felt she had "destroyed my life..." and, she had no support system until she came to MHA.  Briggs will be replaced by another long-time employee and case worker at the MHA.  Steven Cobb is also a recovering addict... who returned to Jamestown more than 9 years ago -- to get sober.  Cobb says he was ashamed after going to a meeting for alcoholics... but, he had been shooting up with crystal methamphetime.  He says Briggs knew he was really struggling... and, talked with him for about two-hours.  Cobb says he looks forward to continuing the Mental Health Association's message of recovery for everyone who comes to them for help. 


Cassadaga man admits to possessing Child Porn in federal court...
A Cassadaga man has pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography earlier this year... and, faces up to 20 years in prison when he's sentenced next year.  U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior said late Friday that 23 year-old Daniel Villafane-Lozada pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Buffalo to one count of possession of child pornography involving a pre-pubescent minor.  Prosecutors say this past April... law enforcement officers Raided Lozada's residence and seized a digital memory card which contained 30 videos and 22 images of child pornography.  Some of the images depicted pre-pubescent minors... or minors under 12 years old, the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler, and depictions of violence.  As part of his plea... Lozada admitted that between 2014 and 2017, he engaged in sex with two minor victims under the age of 18.


Jamestown Plastics celebrates 60th Anniversary in Brocton...
A Brocton company is celebrating a major milestone.  Jamestown Plastics held an open house at its plant on Highland Avenue this past Thursday night.  The company has been operating for 60 years.  It went into business when Dwight Eisenhower was president... and, it was the same year NASA began operations.  Company President Jay Baker says Jamestown Plastics has undergone various changes over the years, and that's allow it to be competitive in an ever changing global economy.  Deputy Chautauqua County Executive for Economic Development, Mark Geise, presented the company with a proclamation from County Executive George Borrello.  Geise says the Brocton facility was one of the stops during the County Executive's visits to 100 businesses in 100 days.


Weed Mass problem in Burtis Bay focus of meeting this week...
The biggest weed mass in recent memory on Chautauqua Lake has produced an odorous mess in Burtis Bay due to tens of thousands of fish being killed off by the weeds.  That from Ellicott Town Supervisor Pat McLaughlin... who says there were a number of factors that played into the weeds piling onto the shoreline area.  One... says McLaughlin... is the fact the Chautauqua Lake Association stopped it's annual weed harvest sooner than usual... secondly, there was an unusual amount of rain earlier in the Fall, and there were a lot of gusty winds that helped blow the masses towards the shoreline.  McLaughlin says the weed mass was the focus of a meeting at the Newell residence in Burtis Bay that he attended along with Celoron Mayor Scot Schrecengost, three county officials, and three members of the state Department of Environmental Conservation.  In addition to having the CLA continue weed harvesting later in the year... McLaughlin says the town is setting aside $20,000 next year to deal with weed issues in Burtis Bay, and Fluvanna. 

WJTN News Bulletin for Fri., Nov. 16, 2018

(**Bulletin)Shooting suspect involved in incident on northside sought by police...
Jamestown police are on the look-out for a man who allegedly got into an altercation with another person on the city's northside this afternoon... and, then turned and shot multiple rounds towards a house.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the scene at West Eighth and Cherry Streets about 2 p.m., and, found that the two men had gotten into a fight, and then pulled out guns when the one suspect began shooting.  The suspect who fired the shots reportedly ran north on Cherry Street towards 9th Street.  However... Samuelson says neither the victim nor witnesses are cooperating... so they are asking for the public's help.  If you know anything about the incident... you're asked to call the JPD Tips-line at 483-TIPS.. that's 483-8477.  You can also contact them through the Tips 411 app.  All tips will be kept confidential.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 16, 2018

Chautuaqua County officials are reminding motorist to use caution when driving through the early weekend due to a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain...  

Sheriff Joe Gerace tells drivers to clean all snow and ice off their vehicles before driving, slow down and, turn your headlights on when visibility is low so other drivers can see you. He also says to make sure you have an updated emergeny kit including a shovel,  phone chargers, flares, and blankets. 


Conditions were changable for motorists on the commute home last night and, it could be tricky this morning...  

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through 7 a.m. today.  That from Forecaster Aaron Reynolds with the National Weather Service... who says some places have seen some frozen precipitation,  but others yesterday afternoon had more in the way of liquid precipitation.  Reynolds says it was all snow from late evening on. A Winter Storm Warning has been in effect for areas to our south and east.  Reynolds adds areas just east of here have the potential for significantly more snow over the next day or so. 


A Jamestown man has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic a large amount of heroin in the city between early 2016 adn early 2017...  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior has announced that 39 year-old Alex Mercado entered the plea to conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin in U-S District Court in Buffalo.  Prosecutors say Mercado was a "mid-level" dealer of heroin and cocaine for the organization run by Sigfredo Martinez.  They say Mercado and co-defendant, Bryan Ferrer-Vazquez, would receive a couple hundred bundles of heroin from Martinez every few days and they were tasked with distributing it to smaller dealers and users.  Drug Enforcement Agency undercover agents made several drug purchases from Mercado and he was arrested along with the other two men during raids that took place in April of 2017.  Charges are pending against Martinez and Ferrer-Vazquez.  Mercado faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $10-million fine.  


The owner of a Cattaraugus County business faces charges of fraud after allegedly telling the village of Ellicottville that he had a minority and/or women-owned business to get a construction contract, and he was not....  

Ellicottville Police say they arrested 30 year-old Bradley Kyler Wednesday on charges of first-degree intent to defraud, and offering a false instrument for filing.  Police say Kyler submitted documents with the village engineer, stating that his business -- Bucket Pro -- was an MWBE business, which was required for the project.  However, police say they informed the village engineer that they had found Bucket Pro was not an MWBE business.  If the village had awarded the contract, police say the municipality could have lost a substantial amount of grant funding for the project.  Kyler will appear in village court at a later date.


It's one day out of the year, but it's an important one for smokers and anti-smoking organizations...

Yesterday was the annual Great American Smoke-Out, a day where the American Cancer Society urges smokers to quit for the first time if they've never tried before.  Speaking with our Dennis Webster Thursday morning, Tobacco Free Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties Community Engagement Coordinator Ken Dahlgren said it's okay to try and fail -- but, you need to try.  He says the problem for many is the fact they started smoking at a very young age-- some as young as 12 years old.

Dahlgren says smoking is one of the hardest addictions you can face and, the smoker should not be blamed for it.  He says the best resource to help you quit is the New York state Smoker's Quitline.  He says you can talk with a counselor and, also learn more about materials that can help you quit.  Dahlgren says the phone number for the quitline is 1-866-NY-QUITS, or you can go on-line to NYSmokefree.com.


The 2020 Elections are nearly two-years off, but the Democrat who was defeated by local Congressman Tom Reed on Nov. 6 says she's running again....  

Penn Yan's Tracy Mitrano says she will again seek the party's nomination to run for the 23rd Congressional District seat.  In a printed release, Mitrano says -- "running for Congress over the last 16 months was the honor of a lifetime.  My 2018 campaign was about so much more than me, it was about the families, farmers, students, and seniors in this district who deserve better than they're getting."  She adds that the election results don't change the facts, including that "the people of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Southern Tier deserve affordable healthcare, education that doesn't come with a lifetime of debt, modern infrastructure, and tax policies that serve the working and middle class." 


Local Congressman Tom Reed, who defeated Tracy Mitrano a week ago last Tuesday, says the election is over and it's time to get back to work in Washington...  

The Corning Republican adds that it's too early to make a decision about running for a sixth-term.  With that, he says there are still a number of priorities he would like to accomplish before he is done in the House of Representatives.  Reed adds any decision about running for a sixth-term in the House of Representatives will be made at a later time.

During his weekly telephone conference call, Reed said there were still goals to be met, including getting a new rules reform package approved in the House that makes it easier for bi-partisan legislation to be approved.  The measure has strong support in the House "Problem Solver's Caucus" that he co-chairs.  Reed says other issues to tackle include heath care coverage and immigration policy. 


New York officials say the state's unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest level on record, dipping to four-percent for the first time in 30 years...  

The Department of Labor says Thursday that October's four-percent unemployment rate was last reached in May 1988.  The agency says its labor force data goes back to 1976.  The state unemployment rate in September was 4.1 percent.  The national unemployment rate in October was 3.7 percent, unchanged from September.  New York City's jobless rate in October was also four-percent, the same as the previous month when it reached its lowest level on record.  The labor department says the overall number of unemployed New Yorkers decreased last month to just under 388,000, the lowest level since April 2001.
 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 15, 2018

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly trafficking crystal methamphetime in the area from a home on the city's northside....  

JPD Captain Bob Samuelson says members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force raided a home at 1107 Prendergast Avenue shortly after 6 p.m. Tuesday with the help of the department's SWAT Team.  Samuelson says they arrested 28 year-old James Smouse and, found more than 19 grams of crystal meth, suboxone and multiple items of paraphernalia, and scales.  He says they also found a switchblade knife, and a baton club.  Smouse faces several charges, including third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, and criminal possession of a weapon.  He was arraigned and sent to the county jail with bail to be set.  Anyone with information on suspected drug activity in the city is asked to call the anonymous tips line at 483-TIPS, that's 483-8477.  You can also contact their Tips 4-1-1 app.


Evergreen Health of western New York cut the ribbon on it's third facility to expand care in the Greater Jamestown-area Wednesday afternoon...

Evergreen President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Ganoe was on hand to help open the new location at 320 Prather Avenue, which will be the "central hub" to coordinate specialty care in the region, including care for people with HIV and Hepatitis C, among others.

Ganoe says they'll be using 2,600 square-feet of the former Prather Avenue Medical Office building, not far from UPMC Chautauqua Hospital.  During the ribbon cutting ceremony, he thanked local staff for their help in getting the new location up and running, adding that their "passion is what sets them apart."  Ganoe says the STI testing is one of the new offerings they'll have at the new facility, which includes a large waiting area, three examination rooms, and one space for private patient consultations.  For more information, call 664-7855.


Volunteers are needed for the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County's free, annual income tax return preparation program...  

Rose Lancione coordinates the agency's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program... also known as VITA.  Lancione says they are in need of a handfull of new volunteers to do taxes for low-to-moderate income members of the community.

Lancione says volunteers do not need to have tax preparation experience because the Chautauqua County VITA Coalition will provide the training and teach the software being used.  She says they will have an instructional session this coming Saturday at the Prendergast Library, beginning at 10 AM.  Lancione says if you would like to volunteer, to be a preparer -- or just help out the effort, contact her at 483-1561.  She says the program is provided for people who make up to $54,000 a year in income.


Skiiers and snowboarders across western New York have nine-days to get ready for the 2018-19 winter season, because Holiday Valley resort is hoping to open their slopes on November 23.....  

That from Director of Marketing Jane Eshbaugh, who says snow-making is underway in Ellicotville.  Eshabugh says they are continuing to make snow through Thursday and will re-start again this weekend.  She adds, they've also made some $3.4-million in improvements for the season including snowmaking equipment, groomers and a new lift.  Eshbaugh says -- as long as the weather cooperates-- Holiday Valley with have 5-to-6 various trails and slopes ready to go next Friday. Lodges for food and refreshments will also be open. For more information, visit HolidayValley.com.


A familiar face is returning to Fredonia village government...  

Former Village Administrator James Sedota has been appointed as full-time treasurer.  Mayor Athenasia Landis says Sedota's appointment comes at a time in which the Village is currently involved with several major projects. Sedota says he is pleased to be returning to village government and, says he's happy to help fill a need there.  He had been hired as village administrator back in 1977 and, retired from that position twelve years ago.


A Harlem man has been revealed as the winner of $343 million in a Powerball drawing, the biggest jackpot in New York state lottery history....  

Lottery officials introduced 67-year-old Robert Bailey at a New York City news conference Wednesday.  Bailey says he has "faithfully" played numbers a family member gave him over 25 years ago.  The retired federal government employee bought his lucky ticket at a Harlem deli. The drawing was held October 27th.  He is taking the winnings in a lump sum of over $198 million. After taxes that's roughly $125 million.  He plans to get a house for his mother, "with a little land around it."  Bailey also hopes to travel.  He says Las Vegas comes to mind.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 15, 2018

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly trafficking crystal methamphetime in the area from a home on the city's northside....  

JPD Captain Bob Samuelson says members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force raided a home at 1107 Prendergast Avenue shortly after 6 p.m. Tuesday with the help of the department's SWAT Team.  Samuelson says they arrested 28 year-old James Smouse and, found more than 19 grams of crystal meth, suboxone and multiple items of paraphernalia, and scales.  He says they also found a switchblade knife, and a baton club.  Smouse faces several charges, including third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, and criminal possession of a weapon.  He was arraigned and sent to the county jail with bail to be set.  Anyone with information on suspected drug activity in the city is asked to call the anonymous tips line at 483-TIPS, that's 483-8477.  You can also contact their Tips 4-1-1 app.


Evergreen Health of western New York cut the ribbon on it's third facility to expand care in the Greater Jamestown-area Wednesday afternoon...

Evergreen President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Ganoe was on hand to help open the new location at 320 Prather Avenue, which will be the "central hub" to coordinate specialty care in the region, including care for people with HIV and Hepatitis C, among others.

Ganoe says they'll be using 2,600 square-feet of the former Prather Avenue Medical Office building, not far from UPMC Chautauqua Hospital.  During the ribbon cutting ceremony, he thanked local staff for their help in getting the new location up and running, adding that their "passion is what sets them apart."  Ganoe says the STI testing is one of the new offerings they'll have at the new facility, which includes a large waiting area, three examination rooms, and one space for private patient consultations.  For more information, call 664-7855.


Volunteers are needed for the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County's free, annual income tax return preparation program...  

Rose Lancione coordinates the agency's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program... also known as VITA.  Lancione says they are in need of a handfull of new volunteers to do taxes for low-to-moderate income members of the community.

Lancione says volunteers do not need to have tax preparation experience because the Chautauqua County VITA Coalition will provide the training and teach the software being used.  She says they will have an instructional session this coming Saturday at the Prendergast Library, beginning at 10 AM.  Lancione says if you would like to volunteer, to be a preparer -- or just help out the effort, contact her at 483-1561.  She says the program is provided for people who make up to $54,000 a year in income.


Skiiers and snowboarders across western New York have nine-days to get ready for the 2018-19 winter season, because Holiday Valley resort is hoping to open their slopes on November 23.....  

That from Director of Marketing Jane Eshbaugh, who says snow-making is underway in Ellicotville.  Eshabugh says they are continuing to make snow through Thursday and will re-start again this weekend.  She adds, they've also made some $3.4-million in improvements for the season including snowmaking equipment, groomers and a new lift.  Eshbaugh says -- as long as the weather cooperates-- Holiday Valley with have 5-to-6 various trails and slopes ready to go next Friday. Lodges for food and refreshments will also be open. For more information, visit HolidayValley.com.


A familiar face is returning to Fredonia village government...  

Former Village Administrator James Sedota has been appointed as full-time treasurer.  Mayor Athenasia Landis says Sedota's appointment comes at a time in which the Village is currently involved with several major projects. Sedota says he is pleased to be returning to village government and, says he's happy to help fill a need there.  He had been hired as village administrator back in 1977 and, retired from that position twelve years ago.


A Harlem man has been revealed as the winner of $343 million in a Powerball drawing, the biggest jackpot in New York state lottery history....  

Lottery officials introduced 67-year-old Robert Bailey at a New York City news conference Wednesday.  Bailey says he has "faithfully" played numbers a family member gave him over 25 years ago.  The retired federal government employee bought his lucky ticket at a Harlem deli. The drawing was held October 27th.  He is taking the winnings in a lump sum of over $198 million. After taxes that's roughly $125 million.  He plans to get a house for his mother, "with a little land around it."  Bailey also hopes to travel.  He says Las Vegas comes to mind.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 14, 2018

Ellicott Police officials have identified a Cassadaga man as the person who was killed in a two-vehicle crash last Saturday...  

Town Police confirm that 65 year-old Peter Tarbrake was driving a southbound car that crossed the center line on Route 60 -- near Van Cobb Road -- and, hit another car shortly before 7 PM.  Officers say Tarbrake was found unresponsive inside the vehicle and, he was rushed to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.  Ellicott police say the investigation is continuing into what caused the crash.  State police, sheriff's officers, and Fluvanna fire rescue crews also assisted at the scene. 


The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office has released information on a felony Leandra's Law arrest in the Town of Portland.... 

Deputies say they saw a vehicle fail to dim its highbeams to oncoming on Route 5 last Wednesday evening. Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the operator as 51 year-old Joseph Pencek. Following an investigation, Pencek was arrested on additional charges of a DWAI-drugs and failure to dim headlights. He is due in Portland Town Court at a later date. 


A Jamestown man has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm earlier this year when he was allegedly involved in a drug investigation...  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior announced late Tuesday that 38 year-old Douglas Wood entered the plea before federal Judge Richard Arcara.  The prosecutor handling the case says that Jamestown Police were surveilling Wood during a narcotics investigation operation and, learned that Wood was in possession of a silver handgun.  He was later approached by uniformed officers and, briefly tried to flee.  Following a brief struggle, the defendant was restrained and officers recovered a loaded revolver and 14 additional rounds of ammunition.  Wood was previously convicted of felonies, including possession of a sawed-off shotgun in Virginia in 2000, and in Chautauqua County in 2001, 2004 and, 2007.  The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  


The U-S House of Representatives and the Senate are back in session today and, while many view it as a lame duck session, area Congressman Tom Reed says there is still lot of work that can be done......

Issues that Reed says he would like to see lawmakers tackle include immigration and, he adds that he believes President Trump is sincere on wanting to get that issue taken care of.  He says members of the Problem Solvers Caucus have proposed their own package they would like pursued.  The Corning Republican made his comments during a recent conference call with Southern Tier Media, after being re-elected to a fifth-term in Congress.


Officials in Chautauqua County are pleased that the county's Land Bank Corporation was recently awarded a $2 million dollar grant from the New York State Office of the Attorney General's Land Bank Community Revitalization Initiative Fund....  

County Executive George Borrello says the grant includes a two-year funding cycle and will allow the land bank to fund its demolition program, to support bank foreclosure acquisitions and other activities.  He says the County's land bank program has far sold 90 rehab properties, demolished another 90 derelict structures, and returned over 50 vacant lots to the tax rolls.  And, the County Executive adds that more projects are in the pipeline.


Western New York will be losing one of it's smaller, but, high profile manufacturing plants next Spring...  

An official with the union representing workers at New Era Cap in Derby says the company plans to close the plant next March.  A spokesperson from CWA Local 14177 tells Channel 7 in Buffalo that the closing will put more than 200 people out of work.  New Era says in a statement it is "considering the discontinuation of operations."  However, there are reports the company will move to South Florida.  New Era Chief Executive Officer Chris Koch says the decision is "extremely difficult for me.  I grew up in Derby and worked in the facility, which has a long, productive history with the company."


The city of Jamestown now has a Christmas Tree for the season, which kicks into high-gear two weeks from this Friday......  

A combined Parks, Public Works and, Board of Public Utilities employees took down the 45-foot Colorado Blue Spruce Tree Tuesday morning at 200 Sampson Street, at the corner with Hazeltine Avenue.  City Arborist Dan Stone says they appreciate the donation from Paul and Jennifer Liuzzo and, adds this is a fun part of the job. The crew was using a BPU Crane to pick the tree up and, lay it onto a Lakeshore Paving flatbed truck.  Stone says it was then taken through the city and off-loaded in front of Tracy Plaza to be cut and further trimmed before being anchored down.  He says it'll be decorated with some 3,000 LED lights, and a large star on top.  The tree will be officially lit to begin the annual Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration in downtown Jamestown on Friday, November 30. 


Two donated blue spruce trees are being cut down this week and transported to the Capitol and Empire State Plaza in Albany to become New York state's holiday trees...

Tuesday morning, a 35-foot spruce donated by the Pfeifer family was cut down in Latham.  A tree donated by the Pappas family will be cut down in Loudonville on Thursday.  Lights will be turned on at a celebration at the Empire State Plaza on Sunday, December 2.  The event will feature free skate rentals, horse and carriage rides, music by Tuba Christmas and figure skating performances.  A special Rock and Skate will follow the tree-lighting and fireworks at 5:15.  The Empire State Plaza rink opens for skating this season on Friday, November 30.
 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 13, 2018

It's been a Veteran's Day Weekend full of observances of the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day and, those continued yesterday with a program at Jamestown Community College....  

The Armistice was signed to signal the end of World War-One but, was not formally recognized until a year later when then President Woodrow Wilson formally declared it as Armistice Day.  JCC's Accessibility Services Director Donald Poole read part of what Wilson said that day, adding that it formally became a national holiday 27 years later.

To commemorate the Federal Holiday Monday, JCC Veteran's Coordinator Melissa Stormer says they had a panel discussion, with veteran's sharing their stories with students and staff.  Between their three main campuses, Stormer says there are roughly 100 veteran's who currently attend Jamestown Community College.  The Veteran's Day observances at Veteran's Park, and at Third and Main Streets in Jamestown were held Sunday -- which was actually Veteran's Day.


One person has died from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash in the town of Ellicott last weekend...  

Ellicott Police say they responded to the crash on Route 60 near Van Cobb Road just before 7 p.m. Saturday and, determined a southbound vehicle on Route 60 entered the northbound lane, and struck an on-coming vehicle.  Officers say the unidentified south-bound operator was found unresponsive inside the vehicle and was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.  The investigation is continuing into what caused the crash. Ellicott police were assisted at the scene by state police, Fluvanna Fire, and the Sheriff's Department. 


A city man is now jailed without bail after he was identified as the alleged bandit during a brazened day-light robbery at the 7-Eleven store on the city's eastside last Friday afternoon...  

Jamestown Police Captain Bob Samuelson says 48 year-old Reinaldo Lugo allegedly stole a Chevy Cavalier earlier in the day and, later drove it to the store at 10-11 East Second Street shortly before 2 p.m. Friday.  However, Samuelson says they found some video, and other evidence that led them to Lugo, who was arrested Sunday.

Samuelson says the larceny charge stems from the taking of the car on Kipp Street.  He says Lugo stole the money because he needed it for his illegal drug habit.  He says Lugo never displayed a gun to the employee in the store and no one was hurt.  Lugo was arraigned Monday morning and sent to the county lock-up.  Samuelson says they are working with the District Attorney's office, and more charges are pending.


A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing a relative with a knife during a domestic incident early last weekend...  

City police were called to the scene on Hall Avenue just after 10 a.m. last Friday and, found that 38 year-old Timothy Snyder had attacked the person with the knife, but the victim sustained only minor injuries and did not require medical treatment.  Snyder was arrested and, was also found to have been involved in another incident last Wednesday.  He was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, second-degree menacing and assault, and, aggravated family offense.  Snyder was arraigned and sent to the county jail with bail to be set.


The man who has been Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace's "right-hand man" for the past 13 years is retiring at the end of the year...  

Sheriff Gerace - who was defeated in the recent election -- says Undersheriff Charles Holder has held the position since 2006.  Gerace says Holder has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience with the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office.  Prior to being appointed Undersheriff., Holder was the agency's Captain, Sergeant and Academy Director of the Zone 13 Training.  Holder was the Team Supervisor of the County Fire Investigation Team and the Crisis Negotiation Team.  Gerace says Holder will become the new Emergency Planning Coordinator for the SUNY College at Fredonia.  He thanked Holder for his "many years of service, dedication and professionalism."  His retirement will become effective in December.


New York state residents will be able to apply for $372-million in federal home heating assistance starting this week....  

The Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, helps low-and middle-income people heat their homes.  HEAP applications will be accepted by local social service departments beginning Tuesday.  Eligible household can receive a one-time regular HEAP benefit of up to $726.  State officials anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular HEAP benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov. New York City residents can download the application and mail it in.  Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.


A storm system passing to the south of the area will bring a mix of snow and rain to the area through today... 

Forecaster Dan Kelly of the National Weather Service in Buffalo says the greatest amount of snow will be over the hilltops, while it will be more of a rain-snow mix near the Lake Erie shore. Kelly says snowfall amounts are expected to range from 2-4 inches over the higher elevations, while only an inch is being projected closer to the lake.  Lake effect snow is expected to kick in today but, snowfall amounts are not expected to be anywhere near the totals that were reported from the north county during Saturday's storm.  We'll have the latest forecast coming up shortly. 

 
Valuable species of shellfish have become harder to find on the East Coast because of degraded habitat caused by a warming environment... 

That's the conclusion a pair of scientists reached in studying the decline in harvest of four commercially important species of shellfish in coastal areas from Maine to North Carolina.  The scientists say their work shows change in the climate and environment, and not overfishing, is the reason for the shellfish decline.  The lead author of the study is Clyde MacKenzie, a shellfish researcher for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration based in Sandy Hook, New Jersey.  The work focused on eastern oysters, northern quahogs, softshell clams and northern bay scallops.  MacKenzie says one of the ways warming has negatively impacted shellfish is by making them more susceptible to predators.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 12, 2018

Jamestown police have found the man who is accused of robbing the 7-Eleven Store on the city's eastside last Friday afternoon...  

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says investigators arrested 48 year-old Reinaldo Lugo Sunday afternoon for allegedly walking into the store at 1011 East Second Street shortly before 2 p.m., demanding cash.  No weapon was displayed.  Samuelson says police were able to identify Lugo through an outdoor surveillance camera after he covered his face, using the hooded sweatshirt he was wearing.  Police found the Chevy Cavalier that Lugo allegedly used to commit the robbery in Allen Park last Friday night.  That car was stolen earlier in the day Friday on Kipp Street.  Lugo is charged with third-degree robbery, and grand larceny and, is being held in the city jail pending arraignment.


A Conewango Valley man has pleaded guilty in federal court for allegedly running a fraudulent debt restructuring scheme two years ago...  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior, has announced that 25 year-old Mark Farnham pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud before U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  Prosecutors say between February and October of 2016, Farnham worked with two co-defendants at companies with various names such as "Corporate Restructure", and "Salamanca Payroll Services."  Farnham was a manager for Corporate Restructure, Inc., which operated out of Salamanca and Buffalo.  Kennedy says the three used a number of fraudulent companies to mail solicitations to small business owners which fraudulently informed the victims that one or more of those companies could assist them with restructuring debts they had with other lenders.  One of the other co-conspirators, Dustin Walker, has already been convicted.  Kennedy says Farnham faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a one-million dollar fine.  Sentencing is set for next March 19.


There were "mixed results" in last Tuesday's election, but there was a great turn-out in Jamestown, Chautauqua County and the entire nation....  

That from Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi, who says there were really no big surprises, although he was somewhat surprised that six-term incumbant Democratic Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace was defeated by Republican challenger Jim Quattrone.  He says Gerace has been an "outstanding public servant."  Teresi says for a mid-term election, turn-out was outstanding.

Teresi agreed that -- outside of Chautauqua County -- there was a "blue wave" for Democrats running for state-wide office.  Governor Andrew Cuomo handily won re-election to a third-term.  From an economic development stand-point, Teresi says that's good for Jamestown and Chautauqua County.  He says Cuomo has paid a lot of attention to Jamestown, between the city's financial struggles, and funding for projects like the new National Comedy Center.  However, he says Upstate New York leaders will now have to raise their voices louder than ever with Democrats winning a comfortable majority in the state Senate.  Teresi made his comments for this past weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the Media One Radio Group of stations.


In New York state government news, lawmakers are taking a look at voting problems from Tuesday's election...  

Malfunctioning ballot scanning machines and long lines caused big problems for many voters Tuesday.  Lawmakers will hold a hearing Thursday to review the complaints and discuss options for improvements.  One common proposal: Allow voters to cast a ballot early, something already allowed in most states.  Meanwhile, supporters of legislation intended to make it easier for molestation victims to sue their abusers are cheering Tuesday's results, predicting success now that Democrats have taken over the state Senate.  The bill would extend the statute of limitations going forward and create a one-year window to allow victims to sue over abuse claims now barred by the statute of limitations.  The Senate's Republican leaders had repeatedly blocked the bill.


The Cuomo administration says New York state is taking steps that could make it the first state to ban the sale of flavored electronic cigarettes...  

A spokesman for Governor Andrew Cuomo says Friday that the Democrat is concerned about the rise in e-cigarette among young people, calling it an "emerging public health issue.''  The New York Post first reported Thursday that the state Department of Health announced plans for regulations banning the sale or possession of flavored e-cigarettes.  The regulations could then be adopted after a 60-day period of public comment.  The administration's plans come as the federal government readies policies requiring strict limits on sales of vaping products increasingly popular among teenagers.  In September, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed teenage use of e-cigarettes an "epidemic.''


New York state will invest $6.8-million in existing after-school programs in order to expand the number of children they can reach...  

The administration of Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the funding last week.  The money will go to 15 high-need school districts and community organizations around the state and will serve an estimated 4,250 additional students, for a total number of 89,000 students around the state.  In order to receive the funding, school districts and other organizations which run after-school programs must meet certain targets when it comes to student outcomes.  Officials say that good after-school programs can reduce student absenteeism, improve their academic performance and reduce the risk of them getting into trouble.  All told, the state awards $45 million in after-school program grants as part of the initiative.


A Western New York supermarket chain with a store in West Ellicott has been again ranked number-one on the list of Best Workplaces in Retail for 2018....  

"Great Place to Work" and FORTUNE Magazine have given the top-ranking to Wegmans, based in Rochester, for the third consecutive year.  The two companies say the ranking is based on anonymous surveys representing over 631,000 employees from Great Place to Work-Certified companies in the retail industry.  Wegman's Chief Executive Officer Colleen Wegman reacted to the news, saying "thank goodness for our employees.  They make Wegmans a happy place to work and shop.  Their work is both meaningful and fun, and that’s an unbeatable combination."


A rare military knapsack carried by a Connecticut soldier during the American Revolution went on display this weekend in honor of Veterans Day...  

Officials at Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York say Benjamin Warner's knapsack was first exhibited Saturday.  Curators say the item was carried by Warner during his service in the Revolutionary War and is considered one of the rarest artifacts to survive America's war for independence.  Warner was from New Haven, Connecticut.  He served in militia units from his home state as well as the Continental Army.  His wartime service took him from Massachusetts to Quebec to New York to New Jersey.  After the war he settled in Ticonderoga and died there in 1846.  A note Warner wrote about the knapsack in 1837 will also be displayed.
 

WJTN Headlines for Sat., Nov. 10, 2018

Suspect still sought in 7-Eleven Robbery, but getaway vehicle found...
City police are continuing to look for a man who allegedly walked into a convenience store on Jamestown's eastside Friday afternoon... and took an undisclosed amount of cash.  However... City Police Captain Bob Samuelson now says police have found the silver-colored Chevy Cavalier the unidentified bandit used to get-away from the 7-Eleven at 10-11 East Second Street he robbed shortly before 2 PM.  Samuelson says the man walked in, and demanded cash from an employee.  However, he did not display a weapon.  Samuelson says the man shown in a photo they are circulating on-line fled in a vehicle was reportedly stolen from a Kipp Street address earlier in the day.  The car was reportedly found in the Allen Street area late Friday.  The man appears to be a white or Hispanic male, who was wearing a navy blue hooded-sweatshirt... with a greyish colored jacket... and, blue jeans or pants.  Anyone who may have information on the suspect is asked to contact the Jamestown Police at 483-7537.  Anonymous tips can be left at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477 or via the tips 411 app.


Jamestown area gets 2 to 3 inches of snow from Weekend storm... parts of north county get up to a foot...
A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect through 10 tonight as the first significant snowfall of the season is here.  Forecaster Dave Thomas with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says the Southern Tier is on track to receive Winter-like snowfall totals through tonight.  Thomas says a strong cold front moved in this morning... bringing in much colder air.  He says some places were to see up to a half-foot of snow.  However, we had a report of 12 to 13 inches of snow in the Fredonia area... while parts of Jamestown got 2 to 3 inches of the white stuff.  Thomas adds we'll also see some precarious road conditions later in the weekend, because of the fact it's the first real measurable snow of the season. 


Borrello says county crews ready for snow this weekend... Lehman echos that for Jamestown...
With the return of wintry weather... Chautauqua County is ready to do battle.  County Executive George Borrello says the Department of Public Facilities says the county's fleet of snow plows is ready to go along with other the necessary supplies.  Borrello says they have salt in their barns, and the plows are ready.  Borrello says the drivers need to do their part and prepare for the return of winter driving.  That means slow down, and leave some room between you and the vehicle ahead of you.  The State Department of Transportation indicated on it's Twitter account Friday that staff from the Chautauqua County maintenance facility held their annual fall safety meeting... and, they are ready for the snow and ice season.
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In addition... Jamestown Public Works Director Jeff Lehman says their salt barn is "full," and, their plows and salt trucks are ready to go.  Lehman says they again have one "main" plow route, and a dozen secondary ones their crews will be following.


Teresi says city officials to weigh legal options in Police Arbitration ruling...
The city of Jamestown is looking into legally challenging an arbitration panel's decision to give the city policeman's union a 2-percent pay increase for both 2016 and 2017.  Mayor Sam Teresi revealed the potential strategy during this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the Media One Radio Group of stations.  Teresi believes the ruling was made in error in favor of the Kendall Club-Police Benevolent Association... and, has discussed the matter with City Council behind closed doors.  He says lawmakers will decide whether to let the ruling stand, or challenge it.  The state arbitrator involved voted with the police union representative on the panel... while Jamestown Administrative Services Director, Todd Thomas -- who represented the city -- voted against the move.  Teresi says there is a short time period left to challenge the decision -- if they decide to do it.  He says if the final decision stands... it will have a "major impact" on both this... and, next year's budgets.  The arbitration panel's decision also included the need for the policeman's union to pay more for their health insurance coverage going forward. 

 

New York taking steps to ban E-Cigarettes...
The Cuomo administration says New York state is taking steps that could make it the first state to ban the sale of flavored electronic cigarettes.  A spokesman for Governor Andrew Cuomo says Friday that the Democrat is concerned about the rise in e-cigarette among young people, calling it an ``emerging public health issue.''  The New York Post first reported Thursday that the state Department of Health announced plans for regulations banning the sale or possession of flavored e-cigarettes.  The regulations could then be adopted after a 60-day period of public comment.

 
 

News Bulletin for Fri., Nov. 9, 2018

**New Bulletin -- Suspect sought in 7-Eleven robbery...

Jamestown police are looking for the alleged suspect accused of robbing the 7-Eleven Store on the city's eastside.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says the unidentified man walked into the store at 10-11 East Second Street shortly before 2 PM... and, demanded cash from the employee.  Samuelson says the man shown in a photo they are circulating on-line fled in a silver colored cavalier that is bearing new york plates GWY 4622.  Vehicle was reported as being stolen from an address on Kipp Street earlier in the day.  The man appears to be a white male, who was wearing a navy blue hooded-sweatshirt... with a greyish colored jacket... and, blue jeans or pants.  Anyone who may know the whereabouts of this vehicle or know who this suspect is is asked to contact the Jamestown Police at 483 7537.  Anonymous tips can be left at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477 or via the tips 411 app.
 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 8, 2018

Local Congressman Tom Reed says he is "humbled" by the support he has received from voters in the Southern Tier that have given him a fifth-term in the House of Representatives...  

The Corning Republican says he looks forward to representing the 23rd District once again and, pledged to stop doing something he did during this year's campaign.  In the interest of toning down the political rhetoric, Reed has announced that he's retiring the label "Extreme Ithaca Liberal."

Reed also spoke about the fact that Democrats will take control of the House in January.  He believes there may be an opportunity to bring in a new House speaker that will allow legislation to come from the bottom up -- instead of top down.  Reed says current House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer is someone that has stood out to him,  and says Hoyer is someone Democrats may rally behind instead of current Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.  Reed, who defeated Democrat Tracy Mitrano on Election Day, made his comments during his weekly conference call with Southern Tier media.


Penn Yan Democrat Tracy Mitrano came up short in her effort to win election to Congress, but there appears to be no sense of bitterness after a heated campaign...  

In fact, Mitrano this morning said she's calling for an end to the divisiveness that has plagued Washington, D-C the past several years and, has become worse since President Trump was elected in 2016.  The Cyber Security expert again warns the country is still vulnerable to attacks.

Had she been able to win, Mitrano says she would have quicked worked to "open her arms" to those who voted against her for the greater good.  She did not close the door to another possible run in two-years, but adds she's not ready to make any annoucement at this point.  However, Mitrano did say that Democratic leaders in the district should begin looking for a candidate or candidates after the first of the year. 


The western New York congressional race between incumbent Republican Chris Collins and Democrat Nate McMurray was too close to call, but the challenger appeared to realize that only after initially conceding....  

McMurray is now demanding a recount.  The Democrat addressed supporters shortly after 11 p.m. Tuesday telling them the effort was "going to come up a little short."  That prompted Collins to declare victory about a half hour later.  But, with preliminary returns showing the narrowest of margins for Collins, McMurray issued a statement early Wednesday demanding a recount, saying "the will of the voters must be heard."  Collins is seeking re-election to a fourth term while facing trial in 2020 on federal charges of insider trading.  He has pleaded not guilty.


With a new Sheriff taking over in Chautauqua County next January 1st... County Executive George Borrello says he will be helping where he can to make it a smooth transition...  

Borrello tells us today, following James Quattrone's victory Tuesday, that he thought it was a great campaign.  Quattrone defeated long-time Sheriff Joe Gerace on Election Night.  Borrello says he thinks Gerace has been a "consummate professional" for years and believes it will ring true with the transition.  Gerace has served as the County Sheriff since 1995, serving an unprecidented six-terms in office.


Universal health care, marijuana legalization and early voting are just a few of the priorities for the Democrats who have won control of the New York state Senate....
  
Democrats scored a number of big wins in Tuesday's election to seize power in the Senate from Republicans, who have long used their power in the chamber to block Democratic priorities.  Now, the party will control the full Legislature and hold all four statewide offices -- giving it enormous control over the political agenda in Albany.


A Jamestown-area manufacturer of high-quality metal products for the defense, transporation and oil and gas industries is enjoying a rebirth under new ownership.... 

Premier Precision Machining took over Rand Machine Products on Allen Street Extension in Falconer in August of 2017 and, the company recently held a grand re-opening.  President and Chief Executive Officer Kurt Grimm -- who is based in New Jersey -- says they upgraded and made some major investments into the business.

Grimm says about 65-percent of their business is with the U-S Department of Defense and, he says the new investment the goverment is making in defense has produced a new, $5-million order for Rand.  He says the Defense Department wanted Rand because of it's reputation.  Rand Machine is in the process of expanding some of their operations and, is hiring workers.  However, finding employees with the skills and work ethic needed has been difficult.  More on that later.


A federal trial is underway in New York City over challenges to the federal government's decision to put a citizenship question on the 2020 census...  

The first witness - Duke University Professor D. Sunshine Hillygus - says there is considerable evidence adding the question will depress participation by non-citizens.  U.S. District Judge Jesse Furman, who is hearing the case without a jury, has harshly criticized the federal government's efforts to delay or stop the trial.  He called them remarkable because government officials insist a speedy resolution of lawsuits is necessary so census preparations can proceed. 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 7, 2018


Chautauqua County will have a new sheriff for the first time in nearly a quarter of a century come next January 1st...  

In a major upset on Election Day, Republican challenger Jim Quattrone defeated Democratic incumbant Joe Gerace by just under 3,000 votes-- 22,14 to 19,126.  During his victory speech at GOP Election Night headquarters in Celoron, Quattrone thanked everyone who helped him and, says he looks forward to working with the men and women in the department.

Quattrone worked with of those employees through 2017, when he retired as a Lieutenant from the department after 30 years.  He later talked being able to run a "clean" campaign with Gerace that was based on the issues and, was very much "door to door."  Quattrone was endorsed by employee groups, and the county Police Chief Association.  He says he'll take a little time off before starting the transition into office.


Incumbant Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace was very disappointed with his loss Tuesday after winning six consecutive elections as the county's top-cop...  

However, Gerace was also gracious in defeat, noting that he has worked hard as sheriff for the people of the county for 24 years.

Gerace praised his family for their support down through the years in running for office and, performing his duties as Sheriff.  He says they have "sacrificed tremendously" during his entire career.  Gerace says he has always run clean, issues oriented campaigns, and never would have done otherwise.  He was surrounded by family members at Brazil Restaurant and Lounge when he gave his concession speech.


While there was a "blue wave" across much of New York state on Election Day, there was a lot of "red" that was victorious in Chautauqua County Tuesday...  

150th District Assemblyman Andy Goodell cruised to victory in his race against Democrat Judith Einach.  Unofficially, the Jamestown area Republican received 28,133 votes to Einach's 12,621.  Local Congressman Tom Reed won over Tracy Mitrano and, State Senator Cathy Young ran unopposed.

Reed defeated Mitrano in Chautauqua County, 59-to-40 percent and, carried the entire 23rd Congressional District, with just over 53-percent of the vote to Mitrano's 44.5-percent.  Mitrano's only win was in left-leaning Tompkins County.  While winning state-wide, Governor Andrew Cuomo lost Chautauqua County to Marc Molinaro, 60 to 35-percent.     


There were some contested races locally in the county on Tuesday...  

In Mayville, Democrat Ken Shearer, Junior is the new Mayor... defeating Republican Rick Syper, 297-to-259.  The results are unofficial.  Four candidates ran for two seats on the village board.  One was won by Democrat Tim Jacobson with 297 votes,while Republican Eagle Harrington got the other with 251 votes.
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In the town of Portland, three people ran for two town justice seats.  One was won by Daniel Thompson with 825 votes, while Tom DeJoe won the other with 653 tallies.  Michelle Patterson was third with 552.
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There was a tie in a run-off for a vacancy on the Villenova Town Council Tuesday.  Democrat John Robinson, senior and Republican Yvonne Park both tallied 190 votes.  That race will be determined by absentee ballots.


Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand, of New York, has defeated Republican challenger Chele Farley to win re-election to the U.S. Senate...  

Gillibrand was heavily-favored in Tuesday's election and has been talked about as a potential presidential candidate in 2020.  At a recent debate, Gillibrand pledged to serve her entire six-year Senate term.  Gillibrand was appointed in 2009 to the Senate seat vacated when Hillary Clinton was nominated secretary of state.  She rose to prominence in the  MeToo movement last year when she was the first Democratic senator to publicly call for fellow Democratic U.S. Sen. Al Franken to resign amid sexual misconduct allegations. 


The High Wind Warning for Chautauqua and Erie Counties expired earlier this morning, but, there will still be some windy weather through the day today....  

That from the National Weather Service... which says the areas closest to the Lake Erie shoreline would see the most wind.  Meteorologist Jim Mitchell at the Buffalo office says the warning was issued due to safety concerns.

Mitchell says a storm system passing to the northwest of the area is causing the strong winds.  Sustained winds today will be 20 to 30 MPH, with gusts up to 40 through the afternoon.


A Cattaraugus County teen faces child endangerment charges for allegedly letting a 15 year-old drive his car in Little Valley Monday afternoon... 

Sheriff's Officers say 18 year-old Dalton Wilson -- of Salamanca -- was arrested following a traffic stop on Fair Oak Street. A 14 year-old and 16 year-old were reportedly in vehicle at the time. Wilson was given an appearance ticket for Town of Little Valley Court at a later date. 


A 31-year-old man has been charged in a weekend shooting at a northern New York nightclub where five people were wounded, four of them soldiers from Fort Drum...  

Police in the city of Watertown say the shooting occurred around 1:20 a.m. Saturday in the fenced-in outdoor area at Club Rio.  Officials say four people hit by gunfire were taken to a local hospital where they were treated and released.  A fifth person was taken to a Syracuse hospital for treatment and then released.  Police say they're still trying to determine what led to the shooting.  Julio Landron-Sanchez was arraigned Saturday with assault and is being held on $50-thousand dollars bail.  Prosecutors didn't know if he has a lawyer yet.  Officials say four of the injured are assigned to nearby Fort Drum, home of the Army's 10th Mountain Division.

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 6, 2018

It's Tuesday..... and it's Election Day 2018!

More than 75,000 active, registered voters in Chautauqua County are eligible to cast ballots in today's election. That from County Democratic Elections Commissioner Norm Green, who says polls open at 6 a.m. today and voting at all 51 polling districts runs until 9 p.m. tonight.  Green tells use that both he, and Republican Commissioner, Brian Abram -- and their staffs, have been busy preparing for the vote.  He says there are several contested races to watch across the county.  One is the State Assembly race, pitting Republican incumbant Andy Goodell against Democratic challenger Judy Einach.  The other county-wide race is for Sheriff, as long-time Democrat Joe Gerace is getting a strong challenge from Republican Jim Quattrone.  Voters will also decide on a Congressional candidate between Republican incumbant Tom Reed and, Democratic challenger Tracy Mitrano.  There is also a U-S Senate race between Democratic incumbant Kirsten Gillibrand, and underfinanced Republican challenger Chele Farley.  Incumbant Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo is being challenged by Republican Marc Molinaro.


There is some good budget news heading into the final quarter of the year for the city of Jamestown...  

City Council Finance Committee Chairman Tony Dolce says Jamestown had a possible record of just over $1.8-million in sales tax receipts for July through September.  Dolce says City Comptroller Joe Bellitto reported the results and, adds that's just over eight-percent more than last year at this time.

Dolce says, for the first three-quarters of 2018, the city has received $4.86-million in sales tax revenues, which is about 81-percent of the year's total projection of $6-million. Bellitto says the city needs to raise just over $1.1-million in the fourth-quarter to make budget for 2018.  If they bring in the amount raised last year... which was $1.52-million, it would bring the city to about $6.3-million. Bellitto is urging lawmakers to not budget any more than $6.2-million in 2019.


The Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, New York, has added 36 names to its public list of priests with substantiated claims of sexual abuse of a child, bringing the total to 78... 

Officials say they will not name an additional 66 dead priests who were the subject of a single abuse complaint.  Bishop Richard Malone released the revised list Monday and again fended off calls from some community members and other priests to resign over his handling of clergy abuse.  The diocese came under fire in March after releasing the names of 42 priests with substantiated allegations. Critics, including a former employee of the bishop, said the list should have been much longer.  The diocese says the updated list includes priests from other religious orders.


A number of items that are needed in the Jamestown Police and Fire Departments have already been cut from Mayor Sam Teresi's 2019 budget proposal...  

Both Police Chief and Public Safety Director Harry Snellings and Deputy Fire Chief Chet Harvey, went before city lawmakers to discuss their spending plans.  Finance Committee Chairman Tony Dolce, who is chairing the budget review, says there's very little left that could be cut in both departments.

Dolce says they discussed the need to replace two fire engines, both of which are 25 to 30 years old.  He adds that neither can really be repaired anymore, and, adds the city would likely have to bond for the one-million dollars they would have to pay for both vehicles.  Dolce adds the city's ladder truck, which is 10 years old now, will likely have to be refurbished in the next year.  The mayor's nearly $36-million budget proposal includes no tax levy increase.  But, due to a slight increase in assessments, there would be a 13-cent per thousand full value tax rate decrease, if the budget is adopted as it.


Strong, gusty winds will be hitting the area by through late Wednesday afternoon....  

A Wind Advisory is in effect through 4 p.m. Wednesday for Chautauqua and Southern Erie counties. Forecaster Aaron Reynolds with the National Weather Service says there will be two separate wind events occurring now into Wednesday.  Besides the strong winds, temperatures will warm into the 60s today.  A colder weather pattern returns Wednesday and, Reynolds says that sets the stage for some lake effect snow by this coming weekend.  He says a "cooling trend" begins on Wednesday and, temperatures will be colder than normal on Saturday, when we could see some measurable lake effect snow.  However, Reynolds says it's still too early to tell how much snowfall we'll see.


Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi says his choice of Battalion Fire Chief Sam Salemme to be the city's next Deputy fire chief was simple in some ways, and more difficult in others...  

Teresi concluded a lengthy search for a new Deputy Chief after learning that Chet Harvey would be retiring later this month.  In deciding on Salemme, he says he wanted to go with someone with a lot of department -- and managerial -- experience.

Teresi says the hard part was the fact he had a strong field of candidates from within the department to chose from.  He says who ever he chose was going to have "big shoes to fill" with the retirement of Chet Harvey.  Salemme has been a battlion chief since 2005 and, worked under Harvey when the retiring chief took the position more than eight-years ago.  Teresi says Harvey will remain a trusted advisor.  Salemme began his career with the Chautauqua County ambulance service in 1986, and later joined the Jamestown Fire Department in 1990.  He will take over his new duties on November 30.  


A garage was heavily damaged in a weekend fire in the town of Ellington...  

Chautauqua County Fire officials say Ellington crews were called to the scene on Thornton Road about 6 AM Sunday, and found flames that began in a chimney and spread into the ceiling and rafters of the garage, which was attached to the home.  Fire crews were able to save the residence.  Investigators say the fire spread through a chimney pipe and was determined to be accidental.  No injuries were reported.


The Media One Radio Group is proud and excited to announce that 106.9 Kiss FM is joining our broadcast family!  

KISS will be moving from their downtown Jamestown location to our Orchard Road Broadcast Headquarters in the next few days.  Our local radio cluster of six radio stations is proud to bring our communities the best in News-Talk-Sports-Oldies-Top 40-Hot AC-Soft Rock-Country-Classic Rock radio formats!

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 5th, 2018

A Cattaraugus County man has been arresed for allegedly shooting and killing his adult son during a domestic dispute in the town of South Dayton last weekend...  


Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say they were called to the scene on Mill Street in South Dayton about 2:45 a.m. Saturday.  Deputies accuse 73 year-old Richard Tyma, Senior of shooting and killing 46 year-old Daniel tyma, who also lived in the home.  The elder Tyma was arrested, and arraigned in South Dayton Village Court on one count of second-degree murder.  He was then sent to the Cattaraugus County Jail with no bail.


A Stockton woman is accused of driving drunk, and while talking on her cellphone, when her car crashed in the town of Chautauqua early last weekend...  

Sheriff's officers say 40 year-old Amy Crowe was traveling on Elm Flats Road about 8:30 last Friday night when her car went into the ditch.  On arrival, deputies located Crowe at a nearby residence.  Upon further investigation, it was found that Crowe was driving in an impaired state.  Crowe was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, DWI Per Se, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, moving from lane unsafely, operating a motor vehicle while using mobile phone, and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle.  Crowe was processed and issued appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court at a later date.


A big, brand new choir had its first concert Sunday at the Southwestern Central School Auditorium....

The CMP Chorale is a non-auditioned choir of 90 voices, founded this year by the Community Music Project.  General Manager, Joe Brager, estimated the audience at 350, and called the atmosphere 'electric.'  The chorale's director, Rebecca Ryan, said the choir worked hard and  'blew everyone's mind' in successfully presenting a difficult concert.  The CMP Chorale will be back with another concert in the spring.  Another Community Music Project group, the  'Chautauqua Chamber Singers', will present their annual '12th Night' concert on January 12 and 13 of next year.  


One 'defender of freedom' was in Jamestown last weekend to honor another defender of freedom at the Robert H. Jackson Center...  

A special program high-lighting the contributions of veterans was held at the Center and, the Keynote Address was given by the Vice President of Corporate and Social Responsibility at Chic-Fil-A, Rodney Bullard.  Bullard is a U-S Air Force veteran, lawyer, and former Assistant U-S Attorney, who wrote the book "Heroes Wanted."

Bullard says he went to college for pre-law, and to play football.  However, he says he felt a higher calling after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.  Bullard says, while Jackson's name itself isn't prominent, his work is.  He says the Jamestown-area native played prominent roles in several major cases that went before the U-S Supreme Court, including Korematsu versus the United States, and Brown versus the Board of Education.  As for what Jackson would think about current day America, given the cases he was part of presiding over, Bullard thinks he would be "very pleased" with the impact of those major rulings.  The program involving Bullard was sponsored by Heritage Ministries.


A campaign staffer for Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano has resigned in the wake of an obscene and vulgar social media post last weekend...  


Mitrano later acknowledged it was one of her field workers, and was "not keeping with the standards to which I have run my campaign for the last 16 months.  The staffer does not speak for the campaign and the statements made in the post do not in any way represent me or my values."  However, Reed Campaign Manager Abbey Daugherty says "it's stunning that a paid member of Tracy Mitrano's staff and a spokesperson for her campaign would make such hateful and offensive statements."  She says "it shows what truly motivates Tracy Mitrano and her team: a hatred of our law enforcement community and our capitalist system." Mitrano's Campaign Manager Ryder Kessler, though, blasted the Reed campaign for trying to exploit an "ill-advised post from a young field staffer during the last few hours of the campaign."


New York has been known for losing population and, high taxes for many years now...  

And, the Republican candidate running an underdog campaign says he's the person who can fix it.  Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro made his only campaign appearance in Jamestown last Friday night at the Northwest Ice Arena on West Third Street.  Molinaro says, while Democratic incumbant Andrew Cuomo claims climate is the reason people leave the state, high taxes and better opportunity are.

Molinaro recalled his one and only debate with Governor Cuomo, where the two-term incumbant set most of the rules and, yelled at him and the moderators most of the time.  Molinaro was joined by several GOP candidates at the event, includling local Congressman Tom Reed.  It was not the first time Molinaro was in Chautauqua County.  He attended a private event in the north county earlier this year when his campaign was in it's early stages.


Residents in New York's Southern Tier and Finger Lakes region who were impacted by damaging storms and floods in August are eligible for financial help...  

Officials announced early last weekend that $13-million is available in the form of grants to homeowners whose damage was not entirely covered by insurance or other assistance programs.  To be eligible for the help, homeowners must live in Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Seneca, Tioga, Delaware or Chenango counties. Individual grants are capped at $50,000.  The August 13 through 15 storms came after a month of unusually heavy rainfall, contributing to local flash flooding and greater damage to homes.  The financial assistance comes from federal sources and is being administered by the state's housing agency.


In New York political news, Cynthia Nixon is backing her former Democratic primary foe Andrew Cuomo - without mentioning him by name...  

The former "Sex and the City" star and political activist urged supporters to back candidates running on the Working Families Party "from top to bottom."  Cuomo won the liberal third-party's nomination for governor after defeating Nixon in a bruising Democratic primary.  Republican challenger Marc Molinaro, meanwhile, interrupted his campaign schedule last week to help a man suffering an apparent stroke on a sidewalk in Poughkeepsie.  The Dutchess County executive, a longtime volunteer firefighter, then directed traffic once paramedics arrived.  In other stories, supporters of legislation to authorize physician-assisted suicide held a Day of the Dead vigil for advocates who succumbed to terminal illness while pushing for the bill.


Governor Andrew Cuomo is touting work to renovate airports in Syracuse, Plattsburgh and the Southern Tier...  

The Democrat, who is up for re-election next week, traveled to Syracuse-Hancock International Airport Thursday to announce the completion of that facility's $62-million overhaul.  On Friday, his office announced the successful completion of the work at Plattsburgh International Airport.  Construction is also wrapping up at Elmira-Corning Regional Airport, though work on the airport's tower is expected to end later this month.  The work is intended to upgrade security and baggage handling and improve the experience of travelers.  In all, more than $160 million was spent at the three airports to upgrade exterior facades, modernize infrastructure and systems, and add new eating and shopping options inside the terminals.

News Headlines for Sat., Nov. 3, 2018

Molinaro fires up GOP Crowd at Northwest Arena rally...
He had just criss-crossed New York state within a 12-hour period... and, his voice was hoarse.  However... Republican Gubernatorial candidate Marc Molinaro was in Jamestown to rally the party faithful last night... and, he took a shot at a statement made not long ago against his opponent, incumbant Democrat Andrew Cuomo... when Cuomo said "I am the government."  Molinaro says he wants to take it back for the people of New York.  The Dutchess County Executive, and former State Assemblyman, finished his day in Jamestown... urging local Republicans to get themselves -- and their friends and neighbors out to vote next Tuesday.  Molinaro wasted no time in going after Cuomo in two areas.  The first being that New York now has the highest tax burden in the United States of any state.  He also noted that Cuomo's administration is the "most corrupt in American..." with 8 to 9 former aides being convicted of, or now serving time for crimes against the state.  Molinaro noted that it was 25 years ago when a relatively unknown Republican, George Pataki, managed to defeat Andrew Cuomo's father, Mario, based on a solid turn-out upstate.  He believes history can repeat itself.  Molinaro says Cuomo has been nothing but a "problem maker" for the upstate region.  In addition to Molinaro... Local Congressman Tom Reed, Assemblyman Andy Goodell, and state Senator Cathy Young were on hand for last night's event in Jamestown.


Democrats to rally with Mitrano tonight in Jamestown...
Democrats will be rallying tonight in Jamestown for their party's candidates at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Works Local #106 headquarters.  Congressional Candidate Tracy Mitrano will host the "Our Voice, Our Vote" rally from 6 to 8 PM.  The rally will feature special guests Assembly candidate Judy Einach... Norm Green, County Democratic Committee Chair... Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi and others.  “Calling all Jamestown residents: come rally with us this Saturday!” Mitrano said. “Even more importantly, next week, cast your ballot.  It is your voice and your vote that matter this November. You have the power to bring change to NY-23.”


Second brother involved in major Jamestown Meth trafficking case sentenced...  
A Jamestown man has been sentenced to eight years and-four months in federal prison for being convicted of possession and trafficking methamphetime in the area.  U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior announced Friday afternoon that 34 year-old Beau "K.C." Jones... received 100-months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine... during sentencing in Federal Court in Buffalo.  Prosecutors in the case says Jones and his brother, Matthew, were arrested in December of 2016 after receiving more than 360 grams of meth through the mail at Matthew's home at 70 Colfax Street.  After the delivery... both were arrested during separate traffic stops.  Matthew Jones was also sentenced to 100-months in prison.


Green says NYS, and Chautauqua County, are "ahead of curve" when it comes to cybersecurity for elections...
New York State is well out in front of the curve when it comes to cybersecurity during elections.  That from Chautauqua County Democratic Election Commissioner Norm Green just a few days before Election Day.  Green says one reason he believes that New York is "way ahead of the rest of the nation" is due to the fact that paper ballots are still used in the state.  He says... while a lot of people don't like the paper ballots... they give elections officials a hard-copy of a person's vote -- in case the current technology fails.  Green says there have been cyber-attacks in Chautauqua County, but election officials have been able to deal with them.  He says they've been going after voter registration data base... but, adds they've been able to defend against every one of them.  Green adds that the county's Board of Elections has a "very secure platform" for all the services it does.


Cattaraugus County woman arrested for drug possession after car hit's a deer on I-86...
A woman from Salamanca is jailed on $10,000 bail for allegedly being found in possession of various -- and large -- quantities of drugs in her car, after hitting a deer on Interstate-86 in the town of Sherman.  Sheriff's Deputies say they responded to an accident in the eastbound lanes just before midnight Friday... and, found the occupants unharmed.  However, during the investigation... officers say they became suspicious and deployed K-9 "Link" on a sniff search.  Link alterted officers to the presence of narcotics..... and, deputies subsequently found over half-an-ounce of methamphetamine, 2-grams of cocaine, heroin... prescription pills, needles and other paraphernalia.  The driver, 51 year-old Candy Leon, was arraigned on several drug possession charges and was sent to the county lock-up.


Cuomo announces Upstate Airport Renovation projects...
Governor Andrew Cuomo is touting work to renovate airports in Syracuse, Plattsburgh and the Southern Tier.  The Democrat, who is up for re-election next week, traveled to Syracuse-Hancock International Airport Thursday to announce the completion of that facility's $62-million dollar overhaul.  On Friday... his office announced the successful completion of the work at Plattsburgh International Airport.  Construction is also wrapping up at Elmira-Corning Regional Airport, though work on the airport's tower is expected to end later this month.  The work is intended to upgrade security and baggage handling and improve the experience of travelers.

 

Lakewood man arrested for alleged rape and child pornography charges...
A Lakewood man has been arrested on rape and child pornography charges after allegations were made in a complaint in September.  Sheriff's officers say 38 year-old Jeffery Shriver of Southland Avenue, was initially arrested on a first-degree rape charge.  However... following a one-and-a-half month-long investigation... additional charges were placed for possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child.... and,  four counts of possession of child porn.  The investigation into previous allegations against Shriver are still on-going.  Officers were assisted by the county's Criminal Investigation Division, County SWAT team, Forensic Investigation team, Lakewood-Busti Police, and others.  Shriver will be back in Busti Town Court at a later date.

 
 

WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 1, 2018

Fire investigators are looking into the cause of a house fire that broke out on the Jamestown Eastside early this morning.... 

Chautauqua County dispatchers say  crews were called to an East 5th Street home at the corner of Lincoln Street about 5:15. Barricades were set up on East 5th between Lincoln and Church Streets. Dispatchers are asking motorists to proceed with caution at this time. We'll continue to update this story as more information becomes available. 

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Additionally, dispatchers report medical crews were called to the intersection of Baker Street and Southwestern Drive in Lakewood about 7:30 a.m. for motor vehicle accident with injury.  Witnesses say multiple vehicles were involved.  One ambulance from Lakewood and another from Busti were en route to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital shortly before 8:00. 


Nothing has been agreed to, but an area state lawmaker says that NRG has expressed a willingness to discuss the sale of it's Dunkirk power plant....  

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell adds it's "an important first step" that could help open the doors to potential buyer for the facility.  Goodell said Wednesday that company officials seem to be open to idea of selling the plant to another energy producer.  However, he says the idea is still in the very early stages.  Goodell, who is being challenged in next Tuesday's election by Westfield Democrat Judy Einach, says he believes the best use of the facility is for generating power.  The Jamestown-area Republican says, nationally, NRG is in the process of getting out of the power generating business.


A Jamestown woman faces child endangerment charges following a Tuesday evening fight.... 

City police were called to the area of Barrett and Prather Avenues just before 7 p.m. and, allegedly found 22 year-old Claudia Portugues on top of a male subject punching and kicking him.  Police say her two-year old niece was on the sidewalk and watched the incident occur.  She was additionally charged with disorderly conduct and is being held in city jail pending arraignment. 


The second of two League of Women Voters debates was held with two forums in northern Chautauqua County this past Tuesday night...  

Candidates vying for Chautauqua County Sheriff were asked during the forum at the Dunkirk Senior Center about the most urgent problem facing the office.  Republican challenger Jim Quattrone stated the drug epidemic, as did incumbent Democrat Joe Gerace.  Candidates running for the 150th Assembly District also took part in the forum.  The location of Tuesday night's debate had to be changed from Dunkirk City Hall to the senior center due to an incident in the courtroom where a prisoner was being arraigned and, he apparently had bedbugs.  The change was made as a precaution.

 

One of the newest members of the Jamestown City Council is offering some suggestions on ways to reduce the city's 2019 budget proposal...  

At-large member Andrew Liuzzo says he's seen some items in the past couple of budgets that should be looked at further and, suggesting cutting two-cents on each dollar in the nearly $36-million spending plan.  He also requested the city look at having employees -- when not mandated -- pay their own costs for additional training.

Liuzzo says he -- and others in business -- have done that down through the years.  As for the two-percent cut to department budgets, Finance Committee Chairman Tony Dolce says, you're comparing "apples and oranges" at times because some budgets -- like the Police Department -- are much larger than the Park's Department.  Police Chief Harry Snellings adds that about 90-percent of his budget is for salaries and benefits.  Liuzzo also suggested looking at Welfare-to-Work programs as places to find Summer laborers, who were difficult to recruit this past year due to changes in minimum wage regulations and guidelines.


Buffalo Bishop Richard Malone is firing back at a former assistant-turned-whistleblower who says the bishop should resign over his response to reports of clergy sexual misconduct...  

In a statement just before midnight Tuesday, the diocese calls statements made by Siobhan O'Connor during an earlier news conference "embarrassingly contradictory."   It attached emails from O'Connor praising the bishop.  O'Connor secretly copied and leaked confidential files that she says show Malone allowed an accused priest to remain on the job and excluded dozens of others from a list of problematic priests released publicly earlier this year.  Malone's said he made mistakes with cases involving adult victims, but never knowingly left a priest accused of child abuse in ministry.  O'Connor on Wednesday calls the bishop's response to her comments a "needless deflection" from the issues.


Voters in the Brocton Central School District approved one of two propositions for a capital project on Tuesday...  

Proposition-one, which involved a $6.6-million project passed 153-135.  But, residents rejected proposition-two 158-129.  It involved a project that totaled just over $1-million. Proposition one includes site improvements to the main building and bus garage.  Work is expected to get underway in Spring of 2020.


President Donald Trump has called for the death penalty for the man accused of killing 11 people in a Pittsburgh synagogue, and he says capital punishment should be brought "into vogue"....  

Trump has gotten his wish, with federal death penalty cases ticking up under his Justice Department after a near moratorium on such prosecutions in President Barack Obama's last term.  Trump's attorney general, Jeff Sessions, has so far approved at least a dozen death penalty prosecutions over the past two years.

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