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WJTN News Headlines for July 31, 2019

Chautauqua County leaders have begun the budget process for 2020 and County Executive George Borrello is hoping to bring in another zero-tax increase spending plan....  

Borrello says he held his annual budget "kick-off" with department heads this week, tasking them with bringing in "no increase" budgets because state mandates continue to increase.

Borrello says the county's general operating budget will again be more than $250-million and, he hopes to keep his proposal around that number.  He says it's good to see the current year's budget pretty much holding the line on spending and revenues.  Borrello noted one concern is over areas that aren't "under our control..." such as payments from the Seneca Nation of Indians, which have been delayed the past two years.  He says the Seneca's are apparently appealing their state payments again.  Borrello says he expects to present his 2020 budget proposal at the County Legislature meeting on September 25th and, lawmakers will begin their review.  


Chautauqua County's top-elected official says he hopes the motion passed last week by the County Legislature opposing wind turbines in Lake Erie sends a strong message to state leaders in Albany....  

WKBW TV is reporting that a California company called "Diamond Generating Corporation" wants to locate 50-plus turbines in the lake, offshore from the town of Evans to the Pennsylvania State Line.  County Executive George Borrello says he checked out the company online and found they're a "front company" for Mitsubishi.  Borrello says he's not surprised that companies are looking to locate wind farms on the lake, but it's important to let the state know that the county is opposed to any such proposal.  County lawmakers passed the motion opposing wind turbines in Lake Erie by an 18-0 vote.


 Local Congressman Tom Reed says it's up to local governments as to whether or not wind turbines are located in any particular community....  

Reed was asked about his stand in the wake of last week's vote by county lawmakers to oppose the location of wind turbines in Lake Erie.  The Corning Republican addressed the issue of wind energy during Tuesday's weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.  Reed says wind power is part of his "all of the above" energy policy, which includes renewables and the use of fossil fuels.  He says "just because it's wind..." doesn't mean I'm against it.


The premier cancer hospital and research facility in Western New York is now one of the top 20 in all the United States....  

U-S News and World Report is out with it's rankings of 885 cancer hospitals and overall, it ranks Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo number-14 in the country.  Roswell's President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Candace Johnson says they're very pleased with the recognition.

Johnson says they are especially thrilled because they ranked higher than many major cancer centers in much larger markets.  She says they have worked hard to provide "cutting edge" care to their patients.  Going forward, Johnson says Roswell will continue to push innovation in cancer surgery and treatment.  She believes they will continue finding cures for more forms of cancer, adding great strides have been made in the past 3 to 5 years.  Johnson adds they were also classified as "high performing" in the survey in both Colon and Lung Cancer surgeries.


Safety Concern Closure... 

Potter's Terrace on East Third Street in downtown Jamestown has been closed because of safety concerns.  The owner of the property, The Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, says a recent examination revealed some structural problems which will now be evaluated.  The terrace has been dedicated as a memorial for AIDS victims. The Renaissance Corporation is looking for community input on re-establishing the memorial.  Contact Pete Miraglia at the Renaissance Corporation for more information.   

 

New York has banned the manufacture, sale or possession of 3D-printed guns and other types of undetectable firearms under a measure signed into law by the state's Democratic governor....  

Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday also signed new rules for the safe storage of firearms in homes with children.  The new rules require guns to be locked in secure storage or made harmless with a trigger lock if anyone under 16 could access the weapon.  Exceptions will be made for teens with licenses to hunt or use a firearm.  The two bills are among several gun control measures approved by lawmakers earlier this year.  On Monday, Cuomo signed legislation extending a waiting period from 3 to 30 days for potential gun buyers whose instant background check yields inconclusive results.


Drug-policy reform advocates say New York's latest marijuana decriminalization law doesn't do enough to address the legacy of discriminatory drug law enforcement.....  

The bill, signed into law Monday by Governor Andrew Cuomo, makes possession of less than two ounces of marijuana a violation subject to tickets and fines, and includes automatic expungement of past convictions for low-level offenses. But, the Drug Policy Alliance's Melissa Moore says the new law still gives police wide discretion to continue making arrests.

Moore advocates for legalization and regulation.  Proponents of the new law say expunging past low-level convictions will help address disparate impacts of past enforcement practices.  Moore adds that there have been about $900,000 arrests for low-level marijuana charges in New York over the past two decades.  In addition, Moore points out that simply reducing misdemeanors to violations doesn't stop the underground trade in marijuana, estimated at 3-billion-dollars-a-year in New York.  But legalization and regulation could bring in about a billion dollars a year in new tax revenue.


Jamestown native Jordan Basile will be doing double-duty in the coming year....  

Not only will he be field manager for the Jamestown Jammers re-entry into the Perfect Game Collegiate Summer Baseball League but Basile will also be coaching the Jamestown Community College baseball team.  Athletic Director George Sisson says Basile comes to JCC with over 25 years of playing and coaching experience at the junior college, Division-One, two and three, and professional levels.  He coached the past two years at Patrick Henry Community College, where his team was one game away from the College World Series with a 38-16-1 record.  In his two seasons at Patrick Henry, he had a combined win total of 64-32. 
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 30, 2019

Part of it was comedy, but there was also a lot of humility shown yesterday afternoon as a new archived exhibit about The Smothers Brothers was officially opened at the National Comedy Center....  

Tom and Dick Smothers, fresh off an earlier appearance at Chautauqua Institution, were on hand to cut the ribbon on the new exhibit.  Dick Smothers called seeing the the exhibit, and Comedy Center, a "humbling experience."

The new exhibit at the Comedy Center mainly honors the 50th anniversary of the cancellation of the  Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which started in 1967.  Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson said it was an honor to have the comedy team in Jamestown -- again.  Gunderson recalled that the Smothers Brothers performed at one of the early "Lucille Comedy Festivals" in Jamestown in 1994 and, this year was the 25th anniversary of that program.  The Smothers Brothers were earlier interviewed in front of a packed amphitheater at Chautauqua Institution to begin Week-Six on the theme "What's Funny."


Two Jamestown men are under arrest for allegedly punching and kicking another man during an assault on the city's eastside last Saturday night....  

Jamestown Police were called to the scene at 1011 East Second Street just after 8 PM for a fight in progress.  Officers say they found that Gavin Long and Corbin Kates -- both 18 -- knocked the unidentified victim to the ground, and then began punching and kicking him.  The man suffered minor injuries.  Long and Kates were both charged with third-degree assault, and taken to the city jail pending arraignment.


The Smothers Brothers hosted their controversial Comedy Hour from 1967 to it's cancellation in 1969....  

Chautauqua Spokeswoman Emily Morris told our Matt Warren yesterday morning's program was "well received."  The National Comedy Center's Journey Gunderson says the week at Chautauqua has worked out as a perfect lead-in to next week's Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown.  After the Smothers Brothers, Gunderson says Frank Oz will be today's featured lecturer at 10:45 AM.  He's the voice of "Miss Piggy" with the Muppets and, has directed and produced a number of TV shows and movies.  On Thursday, David Steinberg and Lewis Black will do a program highlighting the work of legendary comic, Robin Williams.  


Four Dansville teenagers were killed in a motor vehicle accident in the Allegany County town of Burns early last Saturday morning..... 

State Police in Amity were called to the scene about 4:30 AM on County Route 13-C and, found a Jeep Grand Cherokee -- with 5 occupants -- failed to stop at a stop sign.  Troopers say the SUV traveled through the intersection, struck a tree... and came to rest in an embankment.  The front seat passenger, 16 year-old Kelsi Bird, was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  Officers report she was the only person wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.  The operator, 16 year-old Rebecca Earner, and passengers 16 year-old Ambra Eddleton, 14 year-old Justin Carpenter and 14 year-old Kyrstin Wolfanger, were pronounced dead at the scene.  Troopers say driver inexperience, distraction and speed were factors in the fatal accident. 


A major automotive travel organization is reminding motorists to use caution this summer after the fatal crash in Allegany County claimed the lives of four teens...  

Elizabeth Carey of AAA of Western and Central New York says the 100 days of summer is a time when teen crashes soar.

Carey recommends that parents discuss avoiding distracted driving and, other dangerous behaviors behind the wheel -- and make sure you're "buckled up."  She says she always reminds her children to buckle-up for safety when they ride in a car.  State Police say the four victims of Saturday's crash were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.


The Jamestown City Council has unanimously approved a new, five-year contract agreement with the union representing mid-level managers in the city.... 

Lawmakers ratified the pact with the Jamestown City Administrative Association at last night's voting session, retroactive to the beginning of 2017 and running through the end of 2021.  Mayor Sam Teresi calls it a "fair and reasonable" agreement and credited both negotiating groups.

Teresi says the JCAA represents between 25 and 30 people, including a handful of employees of the Jamestown Urban Renewal Agency, which will act on the contract today.  He says the association approved the new contract last week, which does include a small increase in pay, starting next year.  He says there is no increase for 2017, 2018, and 2019.  There will be 2-percent raises for 2020, and 2021.  However, Teresi says long-time workers who have not already received a step increase will as of this past July 1st.  Starting in 2020, Teresi says employees will have the option of participating in a lower cost "hybrid" health care plan, or remain in the city's self-insured plan.


It's time for the annual summer survey of wild turkeys in New York....  

The Department of Environmental Conservation is recruiting volunteers for the citizen science project.  Participants report information about turkeys seen around their homes or while traveling around the state.  The DEC says up-to-date population data is necessary for making management decisions and understanding how populations fluctuate.  DEC has conducted the summer wild turkey sighting survey since 1996.  During the month of August, participants record the sex and age composition of all flocks of wild turkeys they see.  Survey forms and instructions are available on the DEC website.

WJTN News Headlines for July 29, 2019

The National Comedy Center in Jamestown will celebrate it's first anniversary this coming Thursday and, so far the first year has gone very well....  

That from Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson, who says they've received rave reviews from several national publications, and officials.  Gunderson says having the center open at the end of the tourist season last year, and have some downtime in the Winter, allowed them to gear up for the 2019 tourist season and, she says it's been a busy one.

Gunderson says it's gratifying because the question of "would people like it?" had lingered as the project took eight-years to develop.  She says they've been very happy with the reviews.  Gunderson says they'll talk with their consultant A-E-COM about the final attendance figures for year-one and, see where they should be for the center's first "stablized year."  Normally, she says that would be the third-year of operation.  A-E-COM projected the National Comedy Center should draw between 100,000 to 114,000 visitors in the first "stablized year." 


A busy two weeks of comedy in Chautauqua County gets underway today at Chautauqua Institution with a Week-Six theme of "What's Funny?"  

That from National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson, who says the 'groundbreaking' Smothers Brothers will lead things off in the Amphitheater at 10:45 this morning.  Gunderson says this year marks the 50th anniversary of the cancellation of their controversial show "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour".

Tom and Dick Smothers have been the most enduring comedy duo in history, having professionally performed together since 1959.  After today's program the brothers will be in Jamestown to cut the ribbon on a new exhibit about their work at the Comedy Center.  On Tuesday, Director, Producer, Writer and performer Frank Oz will be on the Amphitheater stage, and will be interviewed by CNN Documentary Series Executive Producer, Stephen Morrison.  On Thursday, David Steinberg and Lewis Black will do a program highlighting the work of legendary comic, Robin Williams.  Steinberg managed Williams' career for 43 years.


Two Chautauqua County communities are receiving about 1.1-million dollars from the state Health Department's Lead Line Replacement program for homes.... 
 
Governor Cuomo says 18 communities state-wide, including the town of Ellicott and city of Dunkirk, are receiving a share of $10-million from the program's second-round.  Cuomo say each will receive $561,880 dollars and, adds the program has already awarded $20-million to communities to help offset replacement costs and is a key component of New York's $2.5-billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017.  The current budget continues New York's historic multi-year investment in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, with an additional $500-million commitment, which includes $10-million in funding for this program.


Things got a little 'wild' at the Wild America Festival at Panama Rocks, Sunday,as a brief hail storm occurred.....  

Festival organizer Jonathan Weston said he was concerned, but none of the works of the 40 artists on display was damaged.  The event is put on in conjunction with the Roger Tory Peterson Institute.  RTPI President Twan Leenders said some 3 thousand people attended to enjoy 'fantastic speakers', 'wonderful programs and demonstrations', and the 'great art show'.  The goal of the annual festival is to get people of all ages to re-connect with nature. 


It was the right move for this year's annual World Series of Wheels fundraiser for the local Bath Ruth World Series events....  

That from Committee Vice-President and, director of the Public Relations Division, Kim Ecklund, who says the weather was perfect for Saturday's event.  It was moved this year as a way to provide a "rain date" in case the program was rained out.  As it was... it's rained Sunday.  Ecklund told out Matt Warren they had a great turn-out of cars and other vehicles.

In fact, Ecklund says they expected a record number of vendors this year.  They also had several kids events and programs, in addition to the new motorcycle run put on by the professional firefighters "Axemen" group.  Ecklund says Saturday's event was a major fund-raiser to help the Babe Ruth Committee put on the 2020 13 year-old World Series in Jamestown.  It will be the 40th anniversary of the 1980 13 year-old series in Jamestown, the first for that age catagory.

Police say a skydiver was killed in western New York when his parachute became tangled after it opened....  

New York state police say 68-year-old Richard Cordero and three other skydivers flew out of Perry-Warsaw Airport in Wyoming County at about Noon Saturday.  All four jumped from the plane.  Police say Cordero's parachute opened normally but then became tangled.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.  The other three skydivers landed safely.  Police say Cordero had more than 45 years of skydiving experience.  An e-mail seeking comment was sent to Rochester Skydivers, the company that operates skydiving flights at the airport.

News Headlines for Sat., July 27, 2019

County Health Department closes two beaches on Chautauqua Lake after Algal Blooms are found in those areas...
Harmful Algal Blooms have now been seen in the south basin of Chautauqua Lake... as well as near Long Point State Park.  With that... the Chautauqua County Health and Human Services Department has announced that the beaches in Lakewood and at Long Point have been closed.  The department's Public Health Division is urging all residents and visitors to "be cautious" when swimming or boating on the lake -- especially if HABs are presented.  Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler says "nutrient rich run-off from surrounding land, warm water temperature, and sunshine encourages blue-green algae growth."  Under the right conditions... she says blue-green algae form floating mats which may resemble “pea soup” or have a paint-like appearance with strong colors including blue-green, green, yellow, white, brown, purple, or red.  Schuyler says not all blooms are hazardous... but the public should use common sense and take the following precautions:

 - When swimming, wading, or boating, avoid areas with blooms or surface scums, or water that is noticeably discolored. 
 - Do not allow young children or pets to play in water where an algal bloom is present.
 - Don’t fish or eat fish caught from areas with blooms or surface scums, or water that is noticeably discolored.
 - Pay attention to beach closures, advisory signs, press releases, and websites.  Never swim at beaches that have been closed.
 - Never drink, prepare food, cook, or make ice with untreated surface water, bloom or no bloom.


Reed votes against two-year budget deal and increasing debt ceiling...
The Democrat-led House of Representatives approved the two-year budget and debt compromise worked out with President Donald Trump.  However... Chautauqua County's representative voted again the measure.  Congressman Tom Reed was in the minority that voted against the bill... which is designed to head-off another government shutdown, allow the Treasury to borrow freely to pay the government's bills, and lock recent budget gains in place for both defense and domestic agencies.  Reed says lawmakers are just delaying action on the debt crisis... because we'll have to deal with this problem "sooner rather than later."  The budget deal does include some cuts.  They include 3-million people being lopped off the Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program -- otherwise known as SNAP.  Reed says this mainly involves the "auto enrollment" for the program... and, is to reduce duplication.  He says it forces all the agencies involved in public assistance to communicate with each other.  Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone news call with Southern Tier Media.


Three Jamestown residents arrested on drug charges during domestic incident -- traffic stop...
Three people have been jailed in Jamestown on drug-related charges following a reported domestic incident inside a vehicle on the city's eastside late Thursday night.  Jamestown Police say they were called to the scene at East Second Street -- near Kipp Street -- just before 11:30 p.m., and, found that Allan Broadwater had violated an order of protection.  Officers say they found a container with quantities of hydrocodone and marijuana in it.  Police say they later found a large quantity of pot and digital scales that belonged to the man driving the car, Robert McLoud.  The third person in the vehicle.. Lacey Barker was found with a hydrocodone pill... and, resisted arrest.  All three are being held on charges including criminal possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of marijuana charges.  All three were held pending arraignment.


Borrello says Athenex project remains on track as construction work continues at town of Dunkirk site...
Chautauqua County's top-elected official say the Athenex plant on Route 5 in the town of Dunkirk is still on target to open next summer.  That from County Executive George Borrello... who remains in touch with company officials... and says work continues on completing the 320,000 square foot plant.  Borrello says the goal is July of 2020, and he says this project is a "little more complicated" than building a typical manufacturing warehouse.  Borrello says among the top challenges, finding enough skilled workers to get the plant running.  He adds that may be the main challenge because there appears to be a shortage right now.  Athenex is working with Jamestown Community College, and the SUNY College at Fredonia to help provide training for the company.  Athenex is investing about $1.6-billion in the plant, with New York State providing $225-million in funding for the bio-pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.   


Pennsylvania official says former Corry judge misclassified unpaid bills as thefts...
A Pennsylvania state official says a judge for years misclassified civil complaints about unpaid bills as theft. As a result, hundreds of people have undeserved criminal records.  Auditor General Eugene DePasquale said Thursday a review of the district judge office in Corry, Pennsylvania, found over 800 theft-of-services convictions for offenses that are not crimes under state law.  They include failure to pay fines on overdue library books, bills for plumbing repairs and credit union fees.  The auditor general says then-District Judge Brenda Williams Nichols misclassified cases from 2014 through 2017.  She lost a bid for re-election in 2017.  DePasquale is urging the court system to expunge the records at no cost to those involved.  No phone listing could be found for Nichols, and a message left at a relative's home seeking her comment was not returned.


 

WJTN News Headlines for July 26, 2019

Road Closure Alert....

Chautauqua County Dispatchers say a portion of Route 394 from Route 62 to County Line Road was closed off this morning due to a jack-knifed tractor-trailer.  The Kennedy Fire Department assisted New York State Police at the scene.  A New York State alert indicates 394 was closed for nearly 5 hours and was re-opened about 8:45 AM. More on this story later. 


The murder trial of a Jamestown man accused of stabbing a Frewsburg man to death about a year-and-a-half ago will begin late this Fall.....  

Chautauqua County District Attorney Patrick Swanson says jury selection in the second-degree murder trial of 20 year-old Tavion Turner will begin next November 12th in County Court.  Turner has been held in the county jail in Mayville on one-million dollars cash bail since the November 2017 incident on Willard Street in Jamestown.  He is accused of stabbing 23 year-old Dyllan Ownbey as the two were walking, then began fighting before Turner pulled the knife.  Ownbey was later died at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital.

 
The Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Department in investigating a structure fire in the Town of Otto, in which one person died last Saturday.....  

Deputies in Little Valley released few details this morning but, say their office received a 9-1-1 call July 20th for a residence on fire.  Fire crews responded to the residence on North Otto Road shortly after 9 PM and, found the structure fully engulfed in flames.  Deputies say one person was found deceased inside the heavily-damaged home.  The victim's name will be released once official identification has been made and the family has been notified.  Foul play is not suspected, but the cause remains under investigation. 


A city man -- wanted on felony warrants -- was arrested after leading police on a foot chase with drugs in his posssession Tuesday night....  

Jamestown Police were on patrol in the area of Prendergast Avenue and Price Street when they saw 23 year-old Zachary Graves walking.  When they attempted to talk with Graves, he allegedly took off, leading officers in pursuit.  He was taken into custody a short distance away without incident.  Further investigation found Graves in possession of a small quantity of heroin, a digital scale and brass knuckles.  In addition to the warrants, Graves faces multiple charges including seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, second-degree obstruction, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  He's being held in the city jail pending arraignment. 


The Chautauqua County Legislature has agreed to change the occupancy tax account that'll be used to provide a $10,000 grant to the new Chautauqua Lake Pops in Mayville..... 

However, there was plenty of discussion before lawmakers approved the amendment, 13-to-5.  Jamestown Democrat Chuck Nazzaro says he supports the change because he approved the original measure.  However,  he recalled the legislature resolution in 2011 that established the fund to help start-up tourist-related businesses.

The money will now come from the on-cycle, 3-percent bed tax fund.  However, Ashville Republican Jay Gould said he was going to vote no again.  Gould says the Pops has received bed tax funding six-times, including when it was at Bemus Bay.  He says the county has given the Pops about $81,000.  Jamestown Republican Elizabeth Rankin said she would vote for the measure because it was her understanding that this was to help with moving and other related expenses for the pops.  However, going forward, she says the money should be used for "start-up" tourist-related businesses.


The new clock at the Family Church of Fredonia was installed yesterday without a hitch.....  

Crews using two large cranes were able to perform the job Thursday morning, and, in a short time, crews were able to lift the LED backlit clock from the ground and position it in a perfectly-shaped opening on the south side of the steeple.  With the three-part steeple installed just two weeks ago, Pastor Scott Wise says there's just some finishing work to be done.

Among those watching Thursday's operation was Kurt Maytum, who was a fire chief when a blaze destroyed the clock tower back in May of last year.  Maytum says they came close to losing the entire church but, adds it's great to see the restoration project nearing completion.  


The annual fund-raiser for the Babe Ruth World Series held in Jamestown since the first one in 1980 will take place tomorrow at Bergman Park....  

The World Series of Wheels is an extention of what used to be the World Series of Cars.  The 36th annual event for car and other vehicle enthusiasts begins at 8 AM tomorrow and, will feature vintage, classic and other vehicles from across the region.  Kim Ecklund heads up the Babe Ruth Public Relations Division and, says they're ready to go!

Ecklund says, after a few years of dealing with weather issues, the committee decided to make the change.  She adds that if there were to be inclement weather on Saturday, they would just move it to the following day.  Also new this year, says Ecklund, is a motorcycle run during the day, put on by the Professional "Axemen" motorcycle group.  She says that this years main sponsors again are Dave Warren Chrysler-Jeep, JS Auto Supply and Chautauqua Pool and Power Sports.  The World Series of Wheels runs until 5 PM Saturday.


 There may be discolored water system-wide in the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities territory through mid or late morning today....  

That's because power was cut in the Falconer-area Thursday morning due to an accident in which a truck struck a power pole shortly before 11 AM.  BPU Spokewoman Becky Robbins says the outage cut electricity to the Cassadaga Water Pump Station, stirring water when power was restored.  Residents should not do laundry until their water appears to be clear.  Power was fully restored by 12:45 PM Thursday.  Power was cut in Falconer so crews could help the driver get out of his truck.

News Bulletin for Thurs., July 25, 2019

(**Alert) BPU says expect unsettled water after Falconer power outage triggered by accident...

An accident involving a truck in Falconer late this morning brought down power lines... and, electricity had to be cut in the village.  Board of Public Utilities Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says the crash occured just before 11 a.m., and, power was restored a short time later.  However... the Cassadaga Pump Station had to be shut down for a time... so there will be duscolored water systemwide for the next 12-to-24 hours.  Customers should not do laundry unless their water appears to be clear.

 

WJTN News Headlines for July 25, 2019

County lawmakers also voted unanimously on a motion opposing the state's new "Green Light" Law, which allows illegal immigrants to apply for state driver's licenses.....  

Sheridan Republican Terry Neibel says it would have been a better idea for the state to issue "Special Licenses" to immigrants so they can drive.

Neibel says it puts County Clerks in a bind because they need six-points of identification before a license can be issued and, with foreign-born drivers, verifying a birth certificate or other proof of ID can be difficult.  The former County Elections Commissioner also voiced concern because a standard license is often used for voter identification and, he says this move could result in voter fraud.


The Chautauqua County Legislature has unanimously approved a motion opposing the proposed placing of huge wind turbines on Lake Erie to produce electricity....  

Lawmakers in Mayville voted 18-to-0 last night to oppose preliminary plans for the wind farms.  Some north county legislators developed the motion and one, Republican Kevin Muldowney, says such a move would destroy the natural beauty of the lake.

Another lawmaker involved with the motion, Dunkirk Democrat Robert Bankowski... thanked south county lawmakers for coming on board with the measure.  Irving area Democrat Kevin O'Connell says he supports the idea of clean energy, but not this.  O'Connell says Lake Erie currently provides drinking water for some 17-million Americans and Canadians.  Jamestown Republican Elizabeth Rankin says, county lawmakers know all too well how devastating the huge wind farm in Arkwright has been and, says there are still impacts from that they may not know about.


A recent visit to the southern border with Mexico by several bi-partisan members of Congress was "an eye-opener" for many of them and, local Congressman Tom Reed is hopeful that this will prompt them to move forward on approving some final legislation on the matter....  

Reed says he saw humanitarian and, criminal sides to the border issue.  He says the worst was when an agent stopped a man who had a six-month old baby with him that he had "rented" from a smuggler.  Reed says the man's initial story didn't add up, and agents threatened to give him a DNA test.  He was then threatened with charges if the baby was found not to be his.

Reed says another agent one Democrat spoke with said he was -- "exhausted, you need to fix this."  He says that agent talked with them after pulling the dead bodies of four people from the weeds in recent days near McAllen, Texas.  The Corning Republican says the vast majority of the illegal immigrants coming over the border are seeking asylum.  But, he says there is also a criminal element that has to be addressed. 


The second of two Congressional hearings on Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian Interference in the 2016 Presidential election wrapped up late Wednesday afternoon with few -- if any bombshell findings...  

That was anticipated by local Congressman Tom Reed, who feels the hearings by the Judiciary and Intelligence Committees would yield little more that is new.  Reed says they basically reiterated what was in Mueller's 448-page report.

For the most part Wednesday, Mueller mainly referred to parts of his written report, or gave brief 'yes' or 'no' answers.  However, he disputed President Trump's claim that he was rebuffed in a bid to fill the post of FBI director.  Facing questions from congressional lawmakers, Mueller said he spoke with Trump about the FBI job before he was named as special counsel, but "not as a candidate" for the job.


festival organizer Jonathan Weston says about this weekend's event at Panama Rocks, Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 5.... 

Weston says their mission is to connect people with the natural world by letting them meet wild animals, enjoy the work of 40 nature artists, and sample local foods.  Back this year at noon each day will be the popular wild animal 'edutainment' of Jeff Musial, who makes frequent appearances on 'Late Night with Jimmy Fallon'.  Lee Peterson, the son of Roger Tory Peterson will also be back this year.  The full schedule for the Wild America Festival is at WildAmericaFest.com.  Adult admission is just $10 per day. 


A mainstay technology is missing among New York state troopers....  

When used in other states, police cameras have uncovered officer misconduct, cleared authorities of wrongdoing and shifted the tide of public opinion in high-profile police shooting cases.  Yet, even as the technology receives support from law enforcement experts, an Associated Press survey found that New York remains one of five states where the primary state law enforcement agency does not have dashboard cameras.  The New York State Police say they did have vehicles outfitted with cameras in the past but couldn't afford to maintain or upgrade the equipment.  They also don't have body cameras.  Christopher Dunn, legal director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, says "it's astonishing that the New York State Police have no video accountability."


The U-S Senate has given final legislative approval to a bill ensuring that a victims' compensation fund related to the September 11th, 2001 attacks never runs out of money.....  

The 97-to-2 vote sends the bill to President Donald Trump, who is expected to sign it.  The vote came after Democratic senators agreed to allow votes on amendments sponsored by two Republican senators who had been blocking the widely popular bill.  The Senate easily defeated the amendments proposed by GOP Senators Mike Lee of Utah and Rand Paul of Kentucky.  Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said 9/11 first responders and their families have had "enough of political games."  The bill would extend through 2092 a fund created after the 2001 terrorist attacks, essentially making it permanent. 
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 24, 2019

Significant changes in the recycling markets has led the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities to make a major change in it's program starting September 1st.  BPU General Manager Dave Leathers says, on that date, they will change from "dual stream" recycling to "single commodity" weekly collections....  

Starting September 1st, Leathers says the BPU will begin collecting recycleables in five separate catagories in the orange bins they distribute to city residents.  He says they'll have a revised, four-month calendar, with paper being taken the first week, then metal, plastic and cardboard/box board.  Otherwise, Leathers says everything else is the same, including the schedule, and rates for the year.  He reminds residents they have to at least recycle once a month in order to receive a discounted rate on their trash collection.  If you have any questions, call the Garbage Hotline at 661-1651 or Customer Service. 

Chautauqua County's top-elected official says he will support a motion that county legislators will vote on tonight opposing the location of wind turbines in Lake Erie.  Republican George Borrello says he remains opposed the use of wind power from the lake, something he's held firm on for nearly a decade now...

County legislators will also be taking up a motion that would oppose the "Green Light" Law that would allow undocumented immigrants to apply for a state drivers license.  The law was recently approved by the state legislature, then signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo.  Borrello supports that motion because the state has provided "no tools" for local governments to use to verify who undocumented immigrants are.  The legislature meets tonight at 6:30 PM in the Gerace Office Building in Mayville.


New York has become the first state to ban the declawing of cats...  

The measure was signed into law late Monday by Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo after lawmakers passed it in the spring.  Animal welfare advocates and many veterinarians say the once-common operation is unnecessary and cruel.  It involves slicing through bone to amputate the first segment of a cat's toes.  New York's largest veterinary organization had opposed the bill.  It argued that declawing should remain a last resort for cats that won't stop scratching furniture or humans.  Cat declawing is already illegal in much of Europe and Canada, as well as in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver.  Democratic Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal of Manhattan says the law should be a model for other states.


One of the lesser known aspects of the work of Robert H. Jackson is getting a full examination this week at the Jackson Center.... 

Texas Tech Professor William Casto has come to Jamestown to talk about his book "Advising the President"... about Jackson's brief tenure as Attorney General under President Franklin Roosevelt.  During Jackson's 19 month term, beginning in January of 1940,  Casto says there were three times when Roosevelt made a conscious decision to go above and beyond the law.  One of those involved illegal wiretaps which Jackson opposed. Roosevelt allowed the wiretaps, and Jackson was then left to support the President as best he could and adminster the wiretap program. Casto believes his research demonstrates the tension that always exists between a President and the limits of the law and adds, Jackson worried the system would have problems if the nation ever elected a President "who has no values"  and does "not have the country's interest at heart."  Casto spoke yesterday afternoon at Chautauqua Institution.  Signed copies of his book are available at the Jackson Center in Jamestown.  


Another political candidate is turning to the Libertarian Party to jump-start her efforts to win a City Council seat....  

Northside resident Raven Thompson announced she is seeking an at-large seat this November during a gathering of family and friends last night.  Thompson, who was soundly defeated in her efforts to get the nomination to run in Ward-Two, has now become the lone Libertarian candidate running for an at-large seat.  She first spoke up when she saw the city trying to annex property from the neighboring village of Falconer.

Thompson found out about the issue from Falconer Mayor Jim Rensel, who was her neighbor when she lived in Falconer.  She accepted the Libertarian endorsement by echoing what Libertarian Mayor Candidate Andrew Liuzzo said when he mentioned the city will have to go on a fiscal diet to deal with it's financial issues.  Thompson says, though, she wants to see public input taken more seriously before decisions are made.

 
The Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is joining with the Roswell Park Care Network in Jamestown is hosting its first-ever Cancer Survivor Event on Thursday...  

Roswell's Medical Director of Cancer Survivorship and Screening Dr. Tessa Flores says those attending will receive tips and tools to further manage treatment, with a focus on overall health and wellness.

Dr. Flores will be a keynote speaker during the event, discussing "What to Expect as a Survivor", in regards to finding a new normal, managing side effects, and cancer surveillance.  The Jamestown Area Cancer Patient & Survivor Workshop is free and begins at 6:30 PM at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron.  For more information and to register, visit RoswellPark.org/JamestownEvent. 


Despite extraordinary heat and humidity, last weekend's Laurel Run was one of the best in the 23 year history of the event.....

That from Wayne and Elaine Hotelling of Silver Creek.  They coordinate the program in honor of their late daughter Laurel, who had Down Syndrome.  The Resource Center's Steve Waterson says this year's 'spirit award' went to Johanna Cortes of Dunkirk, who did the entire race in Silver Creek Saturday while pushing her daughter in a wheelchair.  Waterson says they "toughed it out" doing the 8-K and, actually one more mile than that.  He says the two-day Laurel Run generally raises between $18,000 and $20,000 annually, and may exceed that amount this year.  
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 22, 2019

The investigation is continuing into the cause of an early morning blaze Sunday that extensively damaged a two-story single family home in Jamestown....  

City Fire Battlion Chief Chris Dahlgren says crews were called to the scene at 332 Camp Street about 3:15 AM and found plenty of smoke coming from the home on arrival and, there was heavy fire on the east side of the house.

Dahlgren says the Board of Public Utilities and National Fuel were called in to shut-off services.  He says an off-shift was called in to help keep firefighters fresh in the heat and they rotated firefighters in and out of the building.  Dahlgren says two firefighters suffered minor injuries.  One was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for treatment and later released.  The owner of the home was not home at the time.  The cause, again, remains under investigation.


An 18 year-old city woman faces a Leandra's Law violation after allegedly being drunk when her car struck another head-on early Sunday morning on Jamestown's eastside....  

Officers accuse 18 year-old Michelle Grimm of driving into the on-coming lane, and struck the vehicle at the intersection of Allen and King Streets shortly after 4 AM.  Police say a 15 year-old child was in the car with Grimm at the time, making it a Leandra's Law violation.  No injuries were reported, but Grimm faces charges including aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle, DWI, and endangering the welfare of a child.  She was jailed pending arraignment.


A Jamestown man is jailed on several charges after he allegedly grabbed a knife and shoved a woman to the floor of an eastside home before fleeing police....  

City officers were called to the scene last Friday night and, learned that 24 year-old Juan Rodriguez had entered a home in the area of Crescent and Winsor Streets and grabbed the knife.  After running from the home, police found Rodriguez a few hours later inside a vehicle during a traffic stop.  He was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt, aggravated family offense and second-degree burglary and harassment.  Rodriguez was jailed pending arraignment. 


The heat may have kept the numbers down, but spirits were high as the18th annual Scandinavian Festival came to a conclusion Sunday at Jamestown Community College....  

Sarah Goebel from Bemus Point, a member of the Thule dancers, said the heat and humidity were particularly hard on the dancers, many of whom were wearing heavy wool outfits.  For festival organizer, Don Sandy, the three day event becomes of a place of celebration for a few quick days and then it's gone.  Sandy confirmed the festival will be back next year.  Nancy Jones, Vice President of the American-Scandinavian Heritage Society believes such events are important because it allows people to know their roots, where they came from.


Final preparations are underway for the 75th anniversary Gerry Rodeo at the Rodeo grounds of Route 60, which begins a week from this Wednesday.....  

Rodeo Spokesman Paul Cooley says their committee meets monthly... and, has been getting the grounds shored up for the four-day event, July 31st through Saturday, August 3rd.  Performances will begin at 8 PM each night.

Cooley says they'll have a number of special activites and recognitions going on during the rodeo.  New this year, he says is fireworks for the first time ever.  Cooley says they'll have them each night after the rodeo events.  He says there will also be a reunion for Rodeo Queens down through the years.  Cooley says they'll also have the Kids Rodeo again this year and, a large number of vendors on the grounds.  They'll also have their famous Beef Barbecue dinners each night at 5 PM, and, dinner/Rodeo combo tickets are available.  For more information, go on-line to gerryrodeo.ORG, or call 985-4847.


A city man drowned late last week in Lake Erie while he was swimming to beat the heat in Barcelona Harbor in the town of Westfield....  

Sheriff's officers and Westfield Police were called to the scene just before 4:30 PM Friday of a possible drowning.  Deputies say a search was conducted and, he was located in the water by members of the department's Water Emergency Team.  Officers say 24 year-old John Penhollow was pronounced dead at the scene.  The Chautauqua County Medic, county Fire Police, North East, Pennsylvania fire crews, and the Coast Guard assisted at the scene.


A Brocton woman has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person with a baseball bat, biting them and lighting some of the victim's belongings on fire....  

Sheriff's officers were called to a home in the village late last week on a report of a physical altercation.  After investigating, deputies say they took 26 year-old Rose Weary into custoday and, charged her with second-and third-degree assault, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and, fifth-degree arson 5th.  Weary was arraigned and released pending a future court appearance.


Chautauqua County lawmakers are expected to take action this week on a motion that would express their opposition to having wind farms locate in Lake Erie....  

This would follow similar action taken by the Erie County Legislature in June because of reports that a company had reached out to the town of Evans.  Hanover Democrat Kevin O'Connell is among the supporters of the motion and says the turbines could disrupt sports fishing.

O'Connell says the motion, if passed would be sent to state officials because Lake Erie shoreline residents don't want them.  The motion has the backing of Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello who has been a vocal opponent of wind farms.  The full legislature will hold its monthly meeting next Wednesday.

WJTN Headlines for Sat., July 20, 2019

City man dies in drowning in Barcelona Harbor...
A Jamestown man has died in a reported drowning in Barcelona Harbor on Lake Erie in the town of Westfield late yesterday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers and Westfield Police were called to the scene just before 4:30 PM of a possible drowning.  Deputies say a search was conducted... and, he was located in the water by members of the department's Water Emergency Team.  Officers say 24 year-old John Penhollow was pronounced dead at the scene.  He had apparently gone swimming to get away from the heat of the day.  The Chautauqua County Medic... county Fire Police... North East, Pennsylvania fire crews, and the Coast Guard assisted at the scene.


Heat Advisory remains in effect until 6 pm tonight...
A mid-afternoon thunderstorm cooled the area off yesterday... but, more hot and humid weather is expected through early this evening for western New York... including Chautauqua County.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo is continuing a Heat Advisory until 6 p.m. tonight.  Forecaster Heather Kenyon in Buffalo says it's part of the mid-Summer heat hitting much of the continental U-S.  Kenyon says there will be heat index readings -- the combination of temperature and humidity -- that will reach near or better than 100.  Kenyon adds that -- especially if you're very young, or very old -- stay inside and keep as cool as possible.  She says don't stay outside for any prolonged periods of time. 


County Health official warns of dangers during heat wave...
Much of western New York is under the Heat Advisory through tonight... and, health officials are urging residents to stay inside in air conditioning as much as possible during our heat wave.  Chautauqua County Health and Human Services Public Health Planner Shelly Wells says it's important for people to be aware of the heat and humidity... and, the need to keep cool.  Wells also says dress appropriately... with light-colored, and lighter fabric, and stay out of direct sunlight, and drink plenty of water, and non-alcoholic fluids.  She also says avoid sugary drinks.  She adds it's also important to know the signs of heat-related illness.  She says infants, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases... such as heart disease... should be especially careful.  Wells adds we should also keep an eye on our pets... and, make sure they have plenty of fresh water.  She says there are 16 "cooling centers" across the county.  In the immediate Jamestown-area... they include the Prendergast Library on Cherry Street... and, the County Department of Health and Human Services on East Fourth Street.  Residents can also go to the Ashville Library... Fluvanna Free Library... and Hazeltine Public Library in Busti.


State Park pools to be open during heat wave...
New York state parks are keeping their pools open longer to help people deal with the heat wave.  Gov. Andrew Cuomo says the extended hours will begin Friday and continue through Sunday at more than 30 parks statewide.  Temperatures are expected to climb into the 90s around much of the state Friday and Saturday as much of the nation deals with high heat.  High temperatures are expected to linger through the weekend.  A list of available swim locations and places to cool off is available at www.parks.ny.gov.  


Officials say annual 4-H Meat Animal show and sale another big success...
It was another successful 4-H Meat Animal sale at the Chautauqua County Fair yesterday with nearly 200 animals being auctioned off at the show arena.  Four-H Meat Animal Sale Chairman Dave Schauman says activities got underway at Noon at the Dunkirk Fairgrounds.  Speaking with our Dennis Webster... Schauman said there were 68 hogs auctioned off... along with 30 pairs of chickens... 30 Sheep... and 23 steers.  He praised the 4-Her's work, and says the judges were equally impressed with the quality of animals and the care they were given.  County Fair Board Chairman Dave Wilson says that's part of the strength of this fair... adding that Chautauqua County has a "strong" agricultural community.  He says other fairs have seen their farm animal numbers drop -- in some cases dramatically.  Wilson says the Chautauqua County Fair should be in good shape for the next "5 to 10 years."  However... he says there are potential issues on the horizon -- namely with laws enacted by the state including the recently approved Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act... which eliminates a provision in New York state law that prohibits agricultural workers from unionizing.  


Police in Warren County looking for missing girl... 
Authorities in Warren County, Pennsylvania are seeking the public's help in locating a missing girl who may be in the Corry... or Jamestown areas.  State Police in Warren say the juvenile reportedly left her home on Oil Creek Road in Spring Creek Township late last Monday morning... and, has not returned home.  Troopers say she is now considered missing, but, have not identified her.  If you have an information... contact State Police in Warren at 1-(814)728-3600.


Westfield School superintendent retiring later this year...
The Westfield Academy and Central District will soon be looking for a new superintendent.  A story in this morning's Dunkirk Observer indicates that Superintendent David Davison officially announced his intention to retire earlier this week.  He will submit an official letter of retirement in November, with his date of retirement on December 1st.  Davison has been the superintendent of Westfield Academy since May of 2012.

WJTN News Headlines for July 19, 2019

The heat wave that has been roasting much of the United States in recent days is just getting warmed up, with temperatures expected to soar to dangerous levels through the weekend.....  

Communities are preparing by offering buildings as cooling centers and asking residents to check in on family members and neighbors.  Officials are also concerned about smog, which is exacerbated by the heat and makes it harder for certain people to breathe, including the very young, and the elderly.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a Heat Advisory for much of western New York -- including Chautauqua County -- from Noon to 6PM Saturday.  Nationally, the Weather Service estimates that more than 100 local heat records will fall on Saturday, though most won't be daily highs -- but record-high nightly lows. 


It’s ‘so far, so good’ for all the animals at the Chautauqua County Fair in Dunkirk as a heatwave builds across Western New York.  Dr. Shannon Carpenter is the State Veterinarian for this part of New York.... 


The vet says they’ll be watching the livestock and other animals through the weekend, and the owners are already taking appropriate precautions.  Shannon Carpenter says if any animals appear to be ill from the heat they’ll be sent home right away.  Just this year, the fair increased the power available in a number of animal barns to support more electricity use, and wired the open class dairy barn so every cow could have a fan. 


One person was injured after a tractor-trailer struck a State Thruway maintenance pickup truck Wednesday morning on Interstate 90 in the Town of Westfield. .....  

According to State Police Troop T, the tractor-trailer drifted off the roadway in the westbound lanes shortly before 9 AM and, struck the truck from behind.  The driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to Westfield Memorial Hospital for treatment.


Chautauqua County's top-elected official says he spent two "intense" days in Washington, D-C this week, taking part in the Northeast Leadership Conference held at the White House Tuesday........  

Borrello says a number of issues were covered and he got to meet President Donald Trump's Economic Advisor Larry Kudlow.  He says the main emphasis was helping local governments communicate better with federal officials.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross was also part of the conference.  On Wednesday, Borrello met with local Congressman Tom Reed to discussed a number local projects.  Borrello also spoke with Congressman Reed about water resources, namely Lake Erie harbors and, a major feasibility study about issues facing Chautauqua Lake.


Local Congressman Tom Reed says a bi-partsian Social Security Subcomittee he co-leads may have a way to keep Social Security solvent beyond 2035 without increasing taxes on low and moderate-income Americans....  

Reed laid out his principals this wek for reform under the acronym -- “LEAP” - in preparation for an upcoming Ways and Means hearing on Social Security solvency.  The Corning Republican says he's committed to protecting the Social Security Trust fund.

Reed says that, as the youngest of 12 children, he was raised by a single mother on a Social Security check and a military death benefit after his father passed away when he was two.  With that, he says he understands what it means to rely on the program.  He says he and Democratic co-leader John Larson are looking at various ways to help the fund.  Reed says dealing with the solvency issue without raising taxes on low and middle-income Americans "intreging." 


Four people have been arrested for allegedly bilking public assistance in Chautauqua County out of more than $7,000 in benefits....  

The Sheriff's Office and Department of Health and Human Services say they found that 66 year-old Louann Vincent of Jamestown had received unreported income from last September through part of October and, received $2,686 in benefits she was not entitled to.  In addition, deputies say 44 year-old Melissa Williams of Jamestown received $1,180 worth of benefits she was not entitled to from Social Services between June and November of 2016.  Officers add that 48 year-old Shawn Brewer of Westfield received welfare benefits totaling one-thousand-765 dollars in March of 2017.  A Cattaraugus County man, 34 year-old James Gleason of Little Valley, was arrested for allegedly receiving just over $1,400 in benefits while employed at Maplevale Rams from July 1st to October 31st of 2015.


The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities reports a contractor finished work earlier this morning on replacing water valves on Harrison Street between South Main Street and Foote Avenue....  

BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says the work began late last night and, continued through the early overnight.  Once completed, Robbins says water in Downtown Jamestown may be discolored through late this evening and, residents should not do laundry until water appears clear. 


Woodstock 50 organizers have applied again for a permit to hold their festival an upstate New York horse track, a day after losing an appeal for a previous denial.............  

Town of Vernon officials say the application was submitted Wednesday.  Woodstock 50 was previously denied a permit twice last week by the town.  An appeal of the denial was upheld Tuesday night by the central New York town's planning board.  The Vernon Downs racetrack and casino became a possible alternative site for Woodstock 50 after the original venue, Watkins Glen International, pulled out.

WJTN News Headlines for July 18, 2019


Five people are jailed following a major drug bust on the city of Jamestown's eastside early Tuesday afternoon..............  

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says several agencies,  including the Jamestown Metro and, Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and, the State Police Violent Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team... raided a run-down home at 12 Bishop Street, and arrested 19 year-old Camile Lopez, who was wanted on a federal warrant.  However, he says officers also saw what appeared to be a large quantity of narcotics.

Samuelson says investigators allegedly found the 38 year-old Adams with about 8-and-a-half ounces of meth, while 27 year-old Michael Murphy was allegedly in possession of 3.2-grams of crystal meth.  He says they also found small quantities of fentanyl, and heroin, along with $1,500 cash in the drug house.  Samuelson says it looks like the amount of crystal meth they are seeing trafficked in the city is increasing and will be around a while longer.  All five suspects have been arraigned and sent to the county jail.  (**Anyone with information on illegal drug activity can call the JPD Tips line at 483-TIPS.  You can also contact them at their Tips 4-1-1 app)


A Silver Creek man was arrested following a narcotics investigation late Monday night.....  

Sheriff's Officers say they saw a suspicious vehicle parked outside a closed business on Central Avenue shortly before 9 PM.  Further investigation revealed 28 year-old Kevin Schunk was allegedly in possession of small quantities of marijuana, cocaine and LSD.  He was taken into custody and charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and two-counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Schunk was issued appearance tickets for Silver Creek Court at a later to answer the charges. 


Over a hundred Four-H'ers will be offering animals at the Meat Animal Sale on Friday, beginning at noon at the county fair in Dunkirk.... 

One of them will be Josie Allen, a recent graduate of Sherman Central School.  Earlier this week, she reflected on 10 years in the program.

Allen will be selling her purebred yorkshire hog at the sale.  She says letting the animals go is part of the process, and it's gotten easier over time.  Josie is this year's winner of the 'Chautauqua County Four-H Hog Project Memorial Scholarship' through the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.  She'll attend Penn State Behrend in the fall to study biology.  


The city of Jamestown has stayed within it's budget for the first six-months of the year but, there are also some concerns on the horizon.....  

At Monday night's City Council work session, Comptroller Joe Bellitto said that, overall, revenue numbers in the more than $36-million spending plan are "within budget estimates."  Bellitto says Board of Public Utilities payments in lieu of taxes from three of the five divisions are ahead of budget so far.  He adds the city will receive it's second-quarter sales tax revenue payment around the first week of August.  As for spending,  he says salary accounts are "in line" with the budget for the first six-months. 
In addition, Bellitto says he's closely following the "400 account" for the Public Works Department's Central Garage, which has used about two-thirds of it's budget so far.  He says that's due to some "pretty large" repairs that have had to be made. 


The city of Dunkirk is working with Jamestown Community College officials to obtain funding from the state for a feasibility study that will look into giving JCC a presence in the city....  

Mayor Willie Rosas says the idea came out of discussions he has had with JCC President Daniel DeMarte.

Rosas says the city is applying for funding through Empire State Development for the feasibility study, which would look at downtown areas of the north county city.  He confirms that the current Brooks Memorial Hospital location is among the sites under consideration.  The current JCC North County campus is located on Bennett Road in the town of Dunkirk.  Common Council members approved a resolution Tuesday night authorizing the city to apply for funding through the State's Consolidated Funding Application process.
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 17, 2019

Two people remain hospitalized with serious injuries after a State Police cruiser ran into the back of a mini-van on the State Thruway in the town of Sheridan Monday afternoon.....  

State Police Troop "T" now reports that 33 year-old Trooper Stephen Barker of Buffalo was responding to a report of a property damage accident westbound when he came upon the Dodge Caravan, operated by 75 year-old Harry Gibbons of Irving.  Investigators say Barker failed to see traffic slowing up ahead, and his car slammed into the mini-van. Barker and Gibbons and two of Gibbon's passengers were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.  However, two others were flown to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.  Police say 66 year-old George Cole of Arcade is in serious condition, and 70 year-old Timothy McCann of Depew, is in critical condition.


At-Large Jamestown City Councilman Andrew Liuzzo used the old southside neighborhood he grew up in to announce he is staying in the race for mayor....  

Standing in front of an old, neglected garage on Hazzard Street, Liuzzo announced last night that he's accepting the Liberatian Party's endorsement to run for the city's top-elected post.  The Republican says he wants to create a "progressive community" that offers hope and help for both citizens and businesses.

Before last month's GOP Primary, which he lost to County Legislator Dave Wilfong, Liuzzo said he would not seek another endorsement, but, he had already talked with the Libertarian Party.  Liuzzo says he did not know until last Friday's announcement that they were going to endorse him.  At that point, he had to make a decision, which he says he gave "a lot of thought."  Liuzzo noted that in the time he's been a councilman, it's "obvious that I am not well-liked in city government." 


Congressman Tom Reed voted in the minority last night as the Democratic-led House has voted to condemn President Donald Trump's tweets telling four Democratic congresswomen of color to ``go back'' to their countries of origin....  

Tuesday's vote was 240-to-187 and was solidly opposed by Republicans.  Only four GOP members voted for the measure.  Reed joined most Republicans in saying what Trump said was totally "inappropriate..." but, was not racist.

Reed says he has expressed his concerns to Trump when he has the president's ear, or at least to someone on the White House staff.  However,  he adds that he's also going to "fight for what I believe in."  While he disagrees with the president on what was said in the tweet, Reed says he agrees that the so-called "Squad" of four Congresswomen -- including New York's Alexandria Ocasia-Cortez -- represent a "radical socialist movement" in the Democratic Party.  Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.


A pair of sisters from Lakewood took some of the top honors at the Four-H Steer Show at the county fair in Dunkirk Tuesday....  

A 1226 pound 'main cross' named 'Hugo'... raised by Lydia Covert, won grand champion.  She said he thought he would 'do good', but was'nt sure.  Her sister Corinne, won 'commended steer'... fourth place in the show.  Corinne says they decided to go with 'homegrown' animals this year.  Both of the prize winners were born from cows in their own herd.  Reserve Grand Champion' was won by Parker Schauman of Panama, in his first year in the competition.  'Highly commended' went to Michael Kibbe of Randolph.  Around 20 steers will go on the market at the Meat Animal Sale that starts at noon on Friday.


Two adults and nine children were found late Monday night after they got lost while hiking for nearly 4.5-hours in the town of Arkwright.....  

The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department received a 911 call about 9:30 PM and, say the 11 hikers were thought to be near a creek by Park Road.  A search was conducted by State Forest Rangers and Sheriff's K-9's Drake and Bentley.  One of the K-9 Units was able to locate the group and, escort them out of the area.  Deputies say the two people were treated at the scene by Cassadaga Fire crews and later transported to Brooks Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.  Deputies and Forest Rangers were assisted by members of the CAST Team and Sheriff's Road Patrol in the search.   


A woman from Florida has been arrested in Jamestown for allegedly driving while under the influence of drugs with three small children were in the car with her....  

City police add that a Jamestown man riding with her was wanted on two city court bench warrants and, was also arrested.  Officers pulled over the car at the 7-Eleven Store on North Main Street just before 1:00 Tuesday morning and, arrested 23 year-old Corina Baker of Largo, Florida for traffic violations, and found she was driving while impaired.  She faces three counts of violating Leandra's Law and, endangering the welfare of a child.  The passenger, 23 year-old Tyler Tedesco, was found to be wanted on the two city court warrants.  Both were held pending arraignment.


The annual drive to raise about $20,000 for Jamestown's largest soup kitchen didn't quite get to that mark, but did raise well over $19,000.....  

With that, organizers of the Cents for St. Susan's effort are calling this year's drive a big success.  Board of Public Utilities Spokeswoman Becky Robbins, who coordinates the drive, announced Tuesday morning that the effort raised $19,465.  St. Susan's Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight thanked the community for it's support.

Sleight later corrected herself and said it was 10-thousand meals in the month of June.  She and Robbins agreed their canisters located at several businesses did well this year, along with other activites they held.  Robbins says their annual one-day Hot Dog sale at the BPU did very well, raising $500.  Scott-Sleight says the fund-raiser helps them buy supplies, and keep the lights on at St. Susan's all year round.  Over the 20 years of the Cents for St. Susan's campaign, Robbins says they have raised just under $235,000.

WJTN News Headlines for July 16, 2019

Serious injuries have been reported in a two vehicle crash -- involving a State Police cruiser -- on Interstate 90 in the westbound lanes between Dunkirk and Silver Creek.....  

Troopers say the accident occured at mile marker 462, between exits 58 and 59.  Troopers say the other vehicle had five people inside.  Both westbound lanes were blocked for a time at the Silver Creek exit to allow 2 medivac helicopters to land.  Traffic was backed up approximately 3 miles at one time but, was moving again last night. The accident remains under investigation. 


Beleaguered residents on West 11th Street in Jamestown may soon get some relief from tractor-trailer rigs being on their street making deliveries...... 

The 18-wheelers have been reportedly making deliveries to the still-new NAPA Store at West 11th and Washington Streets... and, through very late hours.  However, residents such as Jeanette Jones says the owner promised no tractor-trailers on West 11th -- only Box-delivery trucks.

In addition, Jones told the city council at last night's work session that deliveries were to end each day by 12 Midnight.  However, she says she's seen trucks making deliveries as late as 1:45 AM.  Mayor Sam Teresi told Jones she was right on both accounts.  Teresi asked Jones for any pictures she might have, because he'll have the police department put NAPA on notice that they can't use residential streets for that purpose.  In addition, Jones said she was also concerned because the NAPA store had a "permit granted" sign in it's window and, she questioned if any expansion was planned.  Teresi said he wasn't aware of it.


New York state's top education official is resigning at the end of next month.....  

Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia told the Board of Regents at its meeting Monday she is resigning August 31st.  Elia was appointed in 2015.  She says it was an honor to serve the students and teachers of New York for four years.  An education department spokesman said Elia will pursue another, unspecified professional opportunity.  She had previously served for 10 years as superintendent of schools in Hillsborough County, Florida, which includes Tampa.  The New York State United Teachers union issued a statement wishing Elia well.


The Democratic candidate for the 57th State Senate District seat says he does not support a measure that allows illegal immigrants to obtain New York state driver's licenses....  

Freedom's Austin Morgan told the Jamestown Noon Rotary Club yesterday afternoon that the bill was not well thought out, and fails to address the concerns of County Clerks, who are in charge of the Department of Motor Vehicles offices that are on the front line in issuing licenses.

Morgan says the farming community also has issues that need to be addressed when work visas expire.  He says unfortunately, there is no way to apply for citizenship, or reapply for a work visa if an illegal immigrant is already here.  Morgan says he wants to replace the retired Cathy Young, because the Olean Republican was a legend in Albany, who was a strong voice in the former GOP Majority.  He says you need that voice in the majority, otherwise it gets drowned out.  Morgan was a State Senate staffer last year, who worked a lot on rural poverty issues.  Republican candidate, and Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello, will address the Rotary next month.


Local Congressman Tom Reed has resumed work on a bill he and a Democratic lawmaker began working on a couple of years ago.....  

However, Reed says the proposed "Credit for Caring" tax credit is getting more bi-partisan support now.  The Corning Republican says two Democratic Presidential candidates, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Michael Bennett, are now lending their support to the measure, which supports caregivers.

Reed says there are advantages to someone providing care to a loved one at home, two in particular.  He says the quality of care is better because relatives are involved and, costs to the system are reduced because the person receiving care is not being institutionalized.  Reed praised his Democratic colleagues for joining with him to get the legislation moving.  He says two Republican senators have also thrown their support behind the Credit for Caring measure,  including Iowa's Joni Ernest.  He made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.


A cannon blast remains a long-time tradition for opening the annual Chautauqua County Fair...


A number of local, county and state officials gathered in Dunkirk Monday morning for the kick-off of the 138th edition of the Chautauqua County Fair.  Assemblyman Andy Goodell says Chautauqua County continues to play an important role when it comes to agriculture.

County Executive George Borrello says the fair also plays a role in bringing the entire county together because agriculture remains our number-one industry.  Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas and a number of county legislators also attended the opening ceremony before taking a tour with fair ambassadors from the Chautauqua County 4-H program.  This year's fair continues through Sunday, July 21st.

 
An upstate New York town that denied a permit to stage the Woodstock 50 festival at a local horse track is poised to hear an appeal from organizers....  

Town of Vernon attorney Vincent Rossi says the planning board is set to hear an appeal Tuesday night.  The town denied a permit application on Tuesday for a festival August 16th-18th at the Vernon Downs racetrack and casino.  Residents and some local officials had voiced concerns about preparing for a big festival on short notice.  Vernon Downs emerged as a possible site for Woodstock 50 after the original venue, Watkins Glen International, pulled out last month.  A festival at Vernon Downs could host up to 65,000 people, as opposed to the 150,000 planned for Watkins Glen, and it would not feature camping.
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 15, 2019

We have one more day of sunny, warm and dry weather today before heat and humidity begin to build and, we may see the hotest temperatures of the year by week's end...  

Forecaster Jon Hitchcock with the National Weather Service says we'll also see some rain from what's left of Tropical Storm Barry.  Hitchcock says we'll begin seeing more humid conditions on Tuesday before what's left of Barry arrives about mid-week.

There's no indication how much rain we may get from Barry but, the weather service says some of the thunderstorms from that system may produce heavy downpours. Hitchcock says high pressure is moving in and, after Barry moves out, we'll see temperatures around 90 or higher on Friday.  He says this high pressure ridge has been mainly in the southern U-S this Summer.  Hitchcock says there are no advisories in place yet, though a Heat Advisory may be issued just prior to Friday.  Once we get into Saturday, the heat begins to break with highs in the high-80s, then low 80s on Sunday.  The complete forecast follows our news.


The 138th edition of the Chautauqua County fair gets underway today in Dunkirk......  

The seven-day event runs from today through net Sunday, July 21st.  There will be a number of new features at this year's fair.  That from Fair Board President Dave Wilson, who says one of them is a monster truck show at the Grandstand that will include fireworks.

For the second year in a row, the midway rides will be provided courtesy of Powers and Thomas from North Carolina. Charlie Belknap of Powers and Thomas says all-day tickets to the fair are $12, which he calls "an unsurpassed value."  Belknap says with the pay-one-price ticket, you get to ride the rides all day, and have admission to the exhibits.  The county fair begins this morning with the annual "cannon shot."  For more information on this year's fair, you can go to chautauquacountyfair.org or call 366-4752.


 When you attend the Chautauqua County Fair in Dunkirk this week, don't miss the work of Four-H'ers.  That's the message from Dave and Jan Schauman of Fluvanna... who've both spent decades volunteering for the organization.  Jan says you'll be impressed.....

Her husband Dave, has been the chairman for the Meat Animal Sale Committee for many years.  He says there'll be many nicely finished animals at the 2019 sale, this Friday at noon.  Approximately 70 hogs, 15 goats, 30 pairs of chickens, 45 lambs and 22 steer will be auctioned off.  Each has been raised by a Four-H member. 


A Gerry man is jailed following a fight early yesterday morning on Route 60..... 

Sheriff's deputies were called to the undisclosed scene about 2 AM and, found that 50 year-old Robert Gardner, Junior had struck another person and choked them as well.  Gardner was arrested and, taken to the Chautauqua County Jail for arraignment on charges including second-degree harassment, and criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation.


A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly being under the influence of drugs when he was involved in a three-car accident late last week.... 

Jamestown Police were called to the scene at Winsor and Water Streets just after 5 PM Thursday on a report of the crash.  One of the drivers, 30 year-old Bryon Stingel, was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for tratment of minor injuries.  He was later arrested after police determined he was driving while under the influence.  No other injuries were reported.  Stingel was charged with DWAI, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, and several other traffic violations.

We have learned of two more restaurant closings in the Jamestown-area, one being long-standing location on Fairmout Avenue in West Ellicott....  

The operator of Alfie's informed staff and patrons last Friday that the approximately 40 year-old restaurant will be closing for good on July 26th.  A sign on the door of the restaurant says it will be open Tuesday through Saturday's from 11 AM to 4:30 PM through Friday the 26th.  Meanwhile, a relatively new restaurant in downtown Lakewood has closed.  Craft Burger's and Brews on Chautauqua Avenue recently shut it's doors.  These closings are in addition to the closing of Fresco's Pizza and Wings in Jamestown this past Saturday.


The Dunkirk School Board has removed Superintendent Dr. James Tracy, ending a three-year stint in the north county district....  

The Board made the decision during a special meeting on Thursday but, no specifics have been released.  Retired Superintendent Sylvia Root, who served as the interim Superintendent in Jamestown before the district hired Bret Apthorpe, will take over as interim superintendent, effective today.


New York state has expanded laws against racial bias to include hairstyles and hair texture.... 

The bill aims to ensure no employee can be fired or passed over for a job because of racially biased criticism of their hair.  The change to the state's human rights law was approved by state lawmakers earlier this year.  It was signed into law last Friday by Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo.  Supporters say minorities often face discrimination that's couched in criticism of their hair texture or style.  Specifically, the change adds to the legal definition of race to say it includes traits historically associated with race, including hair texture and styles.  The change would also prohibit racial discrimination by teachers or school employees against a student based on their hair texture or style.

News Headlines for Sat., July 13, 2019

Conewango Valley man identified as victim in Route 83 fatal accident early Friday morning...
A Conewango Valley man has been identified as the person killed when his sports utility vehicle collided with a gasoline tanker truck early Friday morning on Route 83 in the town of Ellington.  State Police say 22 year-old Ramon Spunaugle was driving the southbound Jeep about 1:30 a.m. when his car crossed the center line.  Troopers say the driver of the northbound tanker, Steven Warner, tried to avoid the collision... but, was unable to.  State Police called in their Collision Reconstruction Unit... and, Route 83 was closed for several hours after the accident.  No one else was hurt in the crash.  The Chautauqua County HazMat Team was called into clean up a fuel spill into a ditch at the scene.


Limestone man sentenced to 220 months for Child Pornography...
A Cattaraugus County man will spend more than 18 years in federal prison following his conviction for receiving child pornography.  U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior said Friday that 63 year-old Kevin Fox of Limestone was sentenced to 220 months in prison... and, lifetime supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  Prosecutors say their investigation began when they learned that Fox -- in May of 2016 -- had persuaded an adult female to find two minor males, and engage in sexual activity with them for the purpose of producing a video or still picture depiction.  The woman was then able to meet a 16 and 17-year-old through Craigslist and persuaded them to have sex with her.  She took several pictures with each... and, allegedly sent them to Fox's phone.


Teresi says after reviewing city charter, ethics ruled, he had no problem with DeJoy investing to reopen former Friendly's restaurant...
Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi says... after careful review... he has no problems with his director of development taking on a major investment role in a new restaurant in the Brooklyn Square area.  However... Teresi does admit that it was kind of a surprise when he was informed a short time ago by Vince DeJoy that he was going to lease the former Friendly's Restaurant so it could be operated by the restaurant's former General Manager.  He says DeJoy came into his office before the announcement that he wanted to invest in helping Marcy Parenti operate the new "Jimmy's Hometown Restaurant."  Teresi says DeJoy's family stepped forward to help Parenti because she didn't have the up-front money to do so.  Earlier this month... DeJoy announced that he was using about $155,000 from an inheritance from an uncle to pay the lease for the new, family restaurant.  After reviewing the city code, and ethics law... Teresi says they determined DeJoy could go ahead with the deal.  However... he will have to recuse himself when similar businesses come to the city for help.  The new restaurant did receive a $55,000 low-interest loan from the county's Industrial Development Agency for the new business. 


Liuzzo among candidates receiving Libertarian endorsements to run for office...
A Jamestown City Councilman defeated in the recent Republican Primary to run for mayor will have another line on the ballot in November... if he decides to accept it.  Chautauqua County Libertarian Party Chairman Andrew Kolstee says party members nominated their slate of candidates during their monthly meeting in Bemus Point Thursday night... and, announced they are backing Andrew Liuzzo to run for mayor.  In addition... Kolstee says they endorsed incumbant Tony Dolce to run in Ward-Two... Brittnay Spry in the Fourth-Ward... and, Raven Mason-Thompson for At-Large.  In addition... Libertarians endorsed Rudy Mueller for Busti Town Supervisor... Russ Payne for Carroll Town Supervisor.  Kolstee says the candidates have been given forms to sign to accept their nominations.


Borrello says parts of "A Quiet Place II" to be filmed in Chautauqua County... 
Chautauqua County will serve as the back-drop for part of a science fiction thriller that'll begin filming soon in Western New York.  County Executive George Borrello says Paramount Pictures will be spending about 10 days in the county filming scenes for its upcoming movie, "A Quiet Place Part II."  Borrello says crews will film scenes at a "waterfront" location after competing against other areas, including Long Island.  He says more than 400 people will be hired across upstate New York for production of the film.  He says the production could give the local economy a real shot in the arm between contractors, labor and caterers.  "A Quiet Place - Part 2"... featuring star John Krazinski will be released next March.

 


 

News Bulletin for Fri., July 12, 2019

State Police confirm one dead in two-vehicle crash on Route 83...

One person has been killed in an early morning, two-vehicle accident involving a tanker truck on Route 83 in the town of Ellington.  State Police in Jamestown say the accident occured about 1:30 this morning when the tanker reported rolled onto a Sports Utility Vehicle near Conewango Valley.  Sources have told us that Route 83 in the area of Bentley Hill Road -- near the county line with Cattaraugus -- was closed for several hours.  State Police have not released any other information at this time.  We'll have more when it becomes available.

WJTN News Headlines for July 12, 2019


New York regulators have approved a settlement with Charter Communications resolving a dispute over rural broadband......  

The state's Public Service Commission endorsed the deal Thursday.  Under the terms, Charter must follow through on promises to provide broadband to 145,000 upstate customers -- an investment estimated to exceed $600 million--- and pay the state $12 million for other broadband projects.  Regulators voted last year to rescind approval for Charter's 2016 merger with Time Warner Cable following concerns it wasn't meeting promises to expand high-speed internet.  Charter has said the settlement would prevent the possibility of a costly legal battle.  The Stamford, Connecticut-based Charter, which does business as Spectrum, agreed last year to give refunds and free services to settle allegations that Time-Warner hadn't delivered promised internet speeds.


Chautauqua County's Congressman says he'll get to see -- first-hand -- the conditions refugees are dealing with at the nation's southern border next week..... 

Corning Republican Tom Reed says several members of the Problem Solver's Caucus he co-chairs will travel to Texas next Thursday and Friday.  Reed says it's the largest group of lawmakers to tour those facilities.


Reed and the Problem Solver's group helped move the recently-approved Humanitatian aid package to the border to deal with overcrowding at the current facilities.  Many Democrats have blasted the Department of Homeland Security for allowing the conditions to get worse along the border.  Reed says it again points to the need for Congress to approve a new, border security package, that also addresses DACA, and others who have Temporary Protected Status.  He says there is a bi-partisan bill in the U-S Senate that he believes deals with all those aspects of border security.  Reed made his comments during his weekly media conference call.


Local Congressman Tom Reed says he's inspired to see through approval of legislation that will extend the Special Diabetes Program another five-years....  

During his weekly conference call with Southern Tier Media, the Corning Republican said he enjoyed meeting with Bemus Point's Ben Cornell, and others from the New York Delegation, during the bi-annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Youth Congress in Washington, D-C.

The children were on Capitol Hill yesterday lobbying for an extension of the diabetes program after it was extended for another year in 2018.  However, the $150-million program is slated to end this September 30th.  Reed, though, says after Senate hearings held this week, he's very optimistic there'll be a vote soon.  He says, with 374 members of Congress signing onto the measure he helped push through the Diabetes Caucus, he believes it will "be taken care of."  Ben Cornell was one of eight delegates from New York to attend the Youth Congress.  The 13 year-old said they at least want the program extended for another year.


A man from Georgia and another from Indiana were arrested for allegeldy possessing illegal drugs during a traffic stop near the site of last week's Great Blue Heron Festival in Sherman.....  

State Police in Jamestown say they stopped 36 year-old Steven Bickies of Madison, Indiana for speeding on Route 76 on July 4th... and, Troopers say they smelled marijuana inside the vehicle.  Police say they searched the car, Bickis, and his passenger, 29 year-old Derek Gramling of Cumming, Georgia, and found phychedelic mushrooms, hashish, liquid marijuana in an e-cigarette pen, LSD, multiple controlled pills for which neither occupant had a prescription.  Troopers also allegedly found marijuana vegetation, and a pipe containing pot residue.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.  The Post-Journal reports they were two of just over 30 arrests made during last week's festival.


A Jamestown man faces assault charges after injuring a person during a fight on the city's eastside Wednesday....  

City police responded to the area of East 5th Street and Potters Alley about 6:30 PM for the incident and, found that 35 year-old Patrick Roberts allegedly struck a male victim several times with a belt.  Roberts was located a nearby residence and taken into custody without incident.  He is being held in the city jail pending arraignment. 


One the area's major ethnic festivals takes place this Saturday at St. James Church in downtown Jamestown.... 

 It's the annual 'Festa di Giacomo', under the tent next to the church on Allen Street from 11 AM to 9:30 PM. Father Darrell Duffy, pastor at the church,  says the festival is a time to celebrate life.

Chairpson Sally Donisi with the festival says they'll have all the traditional Italian foods and a couple of new foods, including a salad that includes eggplant.  Donisi adds, Italian cookies and pastries will also be available for purchase.  Proceeds from the St. James Festival benefit the various ministries of the church.  


New York state has officially expanded a state law prohibiting gender pay discrimination, making it illegal to pay someone less based on factors such as their race, religion or gender identity....  

The new law also changes a legal standard for pay equity to make it easier for employees to prove discrimination in court.  Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the changes into law Wednesday in Manhattan, just before joining the U.S. women's soccer team for a parade honoring their World Cup victory.  Cuomo says he supports female players in their quest for pay equal to that of male players.  Democratic Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins says the women's team's lesser pay highlights a fundamental economic problem facing women throughout society.  Cuomo also signed legislation Wednesday barring employers from demanding prospective workers' salary histories.
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 11, 2019

No one was hurt, but a Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly firing several gun-shots during a drive-by shooting late Tuesday night..... 

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers responded to 52 Liberty Street about 10:45 PM and, spoke to several people on arrival.  They included one victim who told officers that their vehicle had been shot multiple times.  Further investigation identified 28 year-old Nathaniel Hollins-junior as the alleged suspect, and that he was shooting at the people in the vehicle.  Police conducted a neighborhood canvass, and found the suspected hand-gun used in a backyard.  Police say Hollins is a convicted felon without a New York State pistol permit.  He was arrested without incident on charges of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, second-degree criminal use of a firearm and first-degree reckless endangerment.  Hollins is jailed without bail.


A man from Cassadaga faces drug and weapons charges following a raid by local drug agents early Wednesday morning...  

Members of the Southern Tier Regional, and Jamestown Metro Drug Task Forces, executed a search warrant at the 27 South Main Street home of 49 year-old Joseph Keyser shortly before 6 AM.  The Sheriff's Department's SWAT Team made entry and, task force members seized a quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, suboxone, drug paraphernalia and, a stun gun.  More charges are pending against Keyser.  To report suspected drug activity in Jamestown, call the Metro Drug Task Force at 483-8477.  Elsewhere, call the Southern Tier Task Force at 664-2420.


A father and daughter from Jamestown who were both known for their infectious smiles have been memorialized by having two benches in Bergman Park named after them....  

Brad and Lauren Proctor both passed away over the past year... and, city officials held a special dedication ceremony yesterday afternoon for the two benches.  City Arborist Dan Stone says he worked directly with Brad Proctor for many years and, says this is a fitting tribute.

Stone says Proctor worked in the city Parks Department for 17 years, and was Bergman Park's Caretaker for six.  Many of his former co-workers were on hand.  There were also several from the Jamestown Public School's where Proctor's wife, Carm, was an administrator.  Carm Proctor was pleased so many came out on what is the first-anniversary of her husband's death.  Lauren Proctor died this past March following a brief illness.  Lauren worked for the Media One Radio Group just a few years ago.  The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation helped establish a fund to help pay for the benches.


A group of western New York Republicans is courting Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia to run for Congress.  The Iraq War veteran ran in 2012 and lost to Representative Chris Collins in the Republican primary.....  

Now, Collins is facing trial on charges of money laundering and, hasn't said yet whether he'll seek re-election next year.  He's pleaded not guilty.  Bellavia supporters launched a "draftbellavia.com" website Tuesday.  Led by political consultant Michael Caputo, organizers say the campaign-style website is meant to show Bellavia the level of support for a possible candidacy.  Bellavia, who received the Medal of Honor from President Donald Trump last month, hasn't ruled out a run.  But he's said he is not interested in using the award to bolster his chances of getting elected.


It was a busy day of meetings Wednesday with federal lawmakers for members of the 10th Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Youth Congress in Washington, D-C.... 

Bemus Point's Ben Cornell was a member of the New York Delegation at the two-and-a-half day event, representing the 23rd Congressional District.  There were meetings regarding how the youth should handle themselves while talking to House and Senate members.  However, there have also been opportunities to talk with others who have Type-1 Diabetes from across the country and, Cornell says it helps to talk about what they deal with on a daily basis.

The 13 year-old Cornell was one of 160 delegates lobbying members of Congress this week to extend the federal Special Diabetes Program for another 5 years.  Cornell met with local Congressman Tom Reed and, was looking forward to it because Reed has first-hand knowledge of the disease.  The Corning Republican's son, Will, is also a Type-1 Diabetic.  In addition to Congressman Reed, Ben Cornell was also to meet with the state's two U-S Senators, Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand.  


Two people were injured in a motorcycle accident in the Town of Hanover Tuesday afternoon and, charges against the operator are pending.... 

Sheriff's Officers responded to Laona Road for the crash just after 1 PM and, identified the operator as 51 year-old Richard Catanese, of Dunkirk.  Deputies say he and the unidentified female passenger were transported to Brooks Memorial Hospital with apparent minor injuries. The accident remains under investigation. Officers were assisted at the scene by the Forestville Fire Department, Cassadaga Fire Department and Chautauqua County EMS.


Pennsylvania students who attend one of the 14 state-owned universities won't see higher tuition next year, the first such freeze in more than 20 years....  

The State System of Higher Education's board on Wednesday voted for to keep in-state tuition flat at about $7,700.  Most of the system's students are from Pennsylvania.  The system's last tuition freeze was for the 1998-99 school year, when the cost for in-state students was less than half what it is today.  The universities have seen total enrollment fall over the past eight years from about 112,000 to just over 90,000.  The state government's support for the system is rising by about 2 percent this year, to $477 million.

WJTN News Headlines for July 10, 2019

No one was hurt, but a Jamestown man has been arrested in connection to a reported drive-by shooting late last night..... 

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers responded to 52 Liberty Street about 10:45 PM and, spoke to several people on arrival, including one victim who notified officers that their vehicle had been shot multiple times.  Further investigation identified 28 year-old Nathaniel Hollins-junior as the alleged suspect, who shot at the people in the vehicle multiple times.  A neighborhood canvass was conducted and officers were able to locate the suspected hand-gun used in a nearby backyard.  Police say Hollins is a convicted felon without a New York State pistol permit.  He was taken into custody without incident on charges of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, second-degree criminal use of a firearm and first-degree reckless endangerment.


A tree falling on a power line in the Brocton area led to several outages that affected as many as 12,000 National Grid electric customers during the Noon hour yesterday.....  

As we first reported shortly before 1 PM Tuesday, the power first went out in parts of Lakewood shortly after 11 AM.  We lost power here at our Media One Radio Group stations about 11:40 AM.  National Grid Corporate Affairs Manager Dave Bertola says most power was restored by 1:30 PM.  Bertola says the tree likely fell on a transmission line that delivers power to neighborhood substations.  He says no power had to be re-routed, so the fixes should be permanent.


The water in the Great Lakes is at or near record levels and that may have allowed a despondent man to survive a drop over the Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls early Tuesday morning.....  

The unidentified man made his leap on the Canadian side at 4 AM, just as Niagara Parks Police arrived.  The Buffalo News reports the water is very high and fast along the Niagara this summer.  At the time, the rate of flow was 120,000 cubic feet per second, double what is required for early in the day.  Authorities theorize the racing water propelled the man past the boulders at the base of the falls.  The jumper, a Canadian, becomes only the fifth person since 1960 to survive an unprotected trip over the falls.  The Chautauqua County Suicide Prevention and Crisis Hotline can be reached at 1-800-724-0461. 


A second-amendment rights group in New York state is praising a court decision to completely exonerate the Chautauqua County man who was the first person to be convicted under the state's SAFE Act.....  

2AWNY.COM Spokesman Steve Felano says Acting County Court Judge Stephen Cass officially dismissed all charges against ex-Marine Ben Wassell and, State Attorney General Latisha James says he should not be re-indicted.  Wassell's attorney, Jim Ostrowski, says the state's Appellate Division determined that the A-G's office lacked jurisdication in the case.  Once they reached that point, Ostrowski says it "was enough to dismiss the case, and dismiss the indictment and send it back to this court for what happened today."  Wassell was convicted about five-years ago of illegally selling an AR-15 rifle to an undercover officer.


A county clerk in western New York has filed a lawsuit challenging a new state law authorizing driver's licenses for immigrants who are in the country illegally.....  

Erie County Clerk "Mickey" Kearns filed the federal court challenge late Monday.  The suit seeks a court injunction blocking the law while its constitutionality is reviewed by the court.  The lawsuit names Governor Andrew Cuomo and Attorney General Letitia James, both Democrats, as defendants.  Kearns says the law forces county clerks to violate their oaths of office by granting licenses to immigrants who have broken immigration law.  Supporters of the measure, which passed last month, say they expected a lawsuit and carefully crafted the law to withstand court scrutiny.  Twelve states already have similar laws.


A man and woman from Celoron were arrested after Ellicott Town Police allegedly found their children living in deplorable conditions last Friday.........  

Officers were called to 10 Venice Street to check on the well-being of 5 children.  Police say the children -- ages ranging from 3-to-11 years old -- were reportedly left to take care of themselves while the adults were asleep.  Both 31 year-old Andrew Kiendl and 25 year-old Nichole Blake were taken into custody on five-counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  Kiendl also had a parole warrant and was futher charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Both are being held in the County Jail pending arraignment. 


A Bemus Point teenager is in Washington, D-C as part of the 10th Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundations Youth Congress..... 

Ben Cornell is one of 160 delegates lobbying members of Congress this week to extend the federal Special Diabetes Program.  The 13 year-old Cornell is representing the 23rd Congressional District and, will meet with local Representative Tom Reed today.  Cornell is a Type-1 diabetic and, says he looks forward to meeting Reed because the Corning Republican's son, Will, also has diabetes.

Cornell adds, though, that there is also a push to lower prescription drug prices because of the cost to obtain insulin.  He says he's fortunate because his parents insurance does a good job of covering that but, he says he's talked with others who have had a "hard time because insulin is super expensive."  In addition to Congressman Reed, Ben says he'll also be meeting today with the state's two U-S Senators, Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand.  


Fourteen months after a devastating fire that destroyed the Village of Fredonia’s iconic clock tower, Family Church of Fredonia will be installing a new steeple on top of the building where the old clock tower stood....  

Pastor Scott Wise says the installation is slated to begin around 8:00 this morning.

Wise says there will still be more work to do before the new clock tower is complete, and that includes working on the base structure underneath the steeple.  He says there is still some vinyl siding and gutter and soffet work that has to be finished.  Wise says the new clock is scheduled to be installed later this month.

 
A Pennsylvania-based convenience store chain is putting Bitcoin ATMs in six shops around the state and one in North Carolina, giving customers the ability to buy and sell the cryptocurrency with U.S. dollars....

Sheetz, which is based in Altoona, has announced it has teamed p with Coinsource to put the ATMs in the five Pennsylvania stores and a shop in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  Vice-President Ryan Sheetz says the chain is always trying to be innovative and give customers what they want.  Customers must enroll with Coinsource before they can use the ATMs. Then, they'll be able to make transactions from $5 to $5,000 per day from the machines.

News Bulletin for Tues., July 9, 2019

Tree falling on tree in Brocton triggers major, National Grid outage... 

A tree falling on a power line in the Brocton area led to several outages that affected as many as 12-thousand National Grid electric customers during the Noon hour today.  As we first reported shortly before 1 PM today... the power first went out in parts of Lakewood shortly after 11 a.m.  We lost power here at our Media One Radio Group stations about 11:40 a.m.  National Grid Corporate Affairs Manager Dave Bertola says most power was restored by 1:30 this afternoon.  Bertola says the tree likely fell on a transmission line that delivers power to neighborhood substations.  He says no power had to be re-routed... so the fixes should be permanent.

News Bulletin for Mon, July 8, 2019

Man from Westfield arrested for DWI after rollover crash...
A Westfield man has been accused of drunk driving after he was allegedly involved in a single-car, rollover accident on Barnes Road in the town of Stockton.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene shortly before 7 p.m. last Saturday... and, found the vehicle unoccupied.  Deputies say they found 20 year-old Jordan Hebner a short time later near the scene.  Further investigation led to Hebner being arrested for driving while intoxicated, and other vehicle and traffic violations.  He was issued appearance tickets for Stockton Town Court.


Brehm wins LECOM Health Challenge tourney in play-off...
Mount Pleasant,, Michigan's Ryan Brehm sank an uncertain putt at the end of a one hole playoff Sunday to win the fourth... and final... LECOM Health Challenge at Peek'n Peak.  Brehm says, when he stroked the winning putt, he wasn't real sure it was going to go into the hole.  Brehm defeated Tim Wilkinson of New Zealand to win the $108,000 first prize after both finished regulation at 20 under par.  Unless a new sponsor or sponsors are found, this could be the last pro golf event for 'The Peak.'  Tournament Director, Mark Geise, of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation called Sunday's conclusion 'bittersweet,' because the tournament has been fun, but, they need a new title sponsor to keep the event going.  The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine sponsored four years of the tournament... part of the what's now known as the Korn Ferry Tour.  LECOM announced earlier this year they'll be moving their sponsorship to a similar tournament in Florida.


Borrello says while there was quantity in State Legislative session, there was a lacking in quality...
The New York state legislature finished what lawmakers say was a record session for the number of pieces of legislation being passed.  However... not all 935 bills approved by the Demcratic majorities in the Assembly and Senate is considered good legislation.  The legislature approved controversial new abortion-rights measures... along with allowing illegal immigrants to apply for driver's licenses.  County Executive George Borrello says the quality of legislation is lacking, because in a number of instances... lawmakers had to quietly go back and vote on a number of amendments, and other changes because the original legislation could not be enacted as is.  He says the best example was the Farmworkers Fair Labor Act... which ignores the concern of upstate farmers.  Borrello says not considering the potentially "devastating impact" on farmers is a concern.  One measure that was not acted on would legalize recreational marijuana...but, lawmakers did approved decriminalizing possession of smaller amounts of pot.  Borrello is the Republican candidate for the 57th State Senate Seat this November.


Jammers to Sign Jordan Basile today as Manager...
A Jamestown native is returning to town to be the new field manager for the Jamestown Jammers when the team resumes play in the Perfect Game Collegiate baseball league next year.  Jamestown Community Baseball last weekend announced it has reached agreement with Jordan Basile to head up the team for the 2020 season.  An official signing ceremony will take place at Diethrick Park this (Monday) afternoon at 1:30 p.m.  Basile graduated from Jamestown High School... and, was a stand-out baseball player at the SUNY College at Fredonia and later served as Assistant Coach at his alma mater. 


Southern Tier Kidney Walk another big success on 10th anniversary...
Well over 100 people were on hand yesterday afternoon in downtown Jamestown to support kidney donation in the region.  The weather was perfect for the 10th anniversary Southern Tier Kidney Walk from St. James Catholic Church... to Panzarella Park... and, back.  It's put on by the Southern Tier Kidney Association... and, The Kidney Connecton... which helps link people in need of transplants with potential donors.  Walkers sign up sponsors... but, Association President Sam Pelleritto says they also had several event sponsors this year... including Pepsi, Artone Manufacturing, "Rosie's Run," and UPMC Chautauqua Hospital.  Pelleritto adds they also had Audio Care on board for this year's walk.  Kidney Walk Chairman Mitch Stone thanked his committee, and others who support the walk.  He adds they also raffled off a number of gift basket, and other items.  Stone says the event annually brings in between $10,000 and $15,000 to help support kidney donations, and dialysis treatment at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital. 


RTPI Weeds Program to resume tonight...
The Roger Tory Peterson Institute's program 'What Are These Weeds' resumes tonight at RTPI beginning at 6 p.m.  Conservation biologist, Jonathan Townsend, says the hour-long session will help people identify weeds commonly found in the lake... and those that could be real trouble if they  move in.  Tonight's program is free, and runs about an hour.  There are longer sessions later in the summer that include visits to the water.  Townsend says anyone who uses the lake, lives on the water, or has a lake related business should know what the current weeds are, and the potential dangers of new ones.  More information is available at RTPI's website, or phone Melanie Smith at the institute at 665-2473.
 

News Bulletin for Fri., July 5, 2019

**DFT Communications issues interrupt phone, Internet service in Jamestown-area for several hours early Friday... ALSO knocks Media One Radio Group off-line...
Some spotty phone outages have been reported this morning... although they seem very localized to the Jamestown-area.  Media One Group and several other businesses serviced by DFT Communications had no telephone nor Internet service from 3:30 a.m. to about 12:15 p.m. Today.  Speaking to DFT this morning... we learned that a number of businesses and others were affected.  However... we contacted the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office 9-1-1 center... and, all is working there okay.


Jamestown man arrested for Fireworks violation...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly firing off an illegal fireworks mortar on Jamestown's westside late Thursday afternoon.  City police say a Gun-Involved Violence Enforcement detail was working with state Police... and, we called to a West Eighth Street location -- near Lafayette Street on a complaint.  Officers say they spotted 26 year-old Tyler Skillman-Drake shooting a mortar-style firework into the air.  It then exploded, and is a violation of the city code.  Skillman-Drake was issued an appearance ticket for discharging a firework within city limits.


Dunkirk-area woman hurt in Fireworks accident...
A north county woman is being treated for a burn injury after she was allegedly hit by a neighbor's fireworks late last night in the town of Dunkirk.  Sheriff's officers and Fredonia fire crews were called to the scene on Bayshore Drive about 10:15 p.m., and, found the 58 year-old woman -- who is not being identified -- had been struck.  Police say the woman was taken to the Erie County Medical Center for treatment and an evaluation.  Polce say their investigation into the incident is continuing.


City man arrested on Narcotics, and obstruction charges...
A Jamestown man has been arrested on several drug-related charges after he was caught following a brief foot chase on the city's westside last Wednesday night.  City police were called to the area of Cherry and West Eighth Streets shortly before 7 PM on a report of narcotics activity.  Officers say they spotted a suspicious vehicle in the area, that then tried to leave the area.  However.. when police tried to stop the vehicle... 31 year-old Lucas Smyczek... got out and ran off on foot.  Officers later stopped Smyczek at Lafayette Street and Isabella Avenue.  However... he allegedly tried to hide and throw away a large quantity of drugs he was intending to sell.  Police say Smyczek was also wanted on warrants from other agencies.  He was arrested pending arraignment on charges of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, and obstruction.


Jamestown man arrested on slew of charges in Lakewood, is held on quarter of a million dollars bail...
A city man is being held on 250-thousand dollars bail following a traffic stop in Lakewood where he was found in possession of drugs, and then escaped for a short time from police.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they stopped a vehicle in the parking lot at 277 East Fairmount Ave. for allegedly failing to stop at a red light.  Officers say they found that 21 year-old Dale Linkous, Jr. Jamestown was driving with a revoked license, and had an order to stay away from the passenger in his car.  In addition... police found Linkous in possession of 62 grams of powder cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana.  Linkous was arrested... but, allegedly broke the leg shackle he was wearing... and ran out of police headquarters.  He was later found with the assistance of Chautauqua County Probation... and, arrested on more charges -- including first-degree escape.    


Boater accused of BWI in Chautauqua Institution boat accident...
A Washington, DC man faces a boating while intoxicated charge after his boat reportedly collided with a docked vessel at the Sport Club Dock at Chautauqua Institution.  Sheriff's deputies say a member of the Navigation Team was called to the scene just after 2 p.m. yesterday... and, found that 42 year-old Matthew Lockwood was operating one of the vessels... which struck the other one, which was docked.  No one was hurt.  The deputy smelled an odor of alcohol, and Lockwood failed a sobriety test.  He was charged with BWI, and having an unregistered boat.


Reptiles seized in Cattaraugus County...
A 71-year-old Cattaraugus County man faces multiple charges including illegal sale of wildlife after state environmental officials seized hundreds of turtles and three king cobras from his home.  The state Department of Environmental Conservation says William Engelder of Allegany was charged with reckless endangerment, illegal possession of venomous reptiles and numerous other offenses.  The reptiles seized included 17 endangered bog turtles and 184 spotted turtles, a species of special concern.  It is illegal to possess reptiles that are native to New York state.  


 
 

WJTN News Headlines for July 3, 2019

A former 7-12 grade school teacher for the Clymer Central School District has pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography involving a prepuebscent minor.....  

U-S Attorney James Kennedy-juinor says 60 year-old Scott Aikens entered the plea before Judge Elizabeth Wolford on Tuesday.  Prosecutors say  in June 2018, Homeland Security Investigations in Buffalo received information that a user -- later identified as Aikens -- was active on a Thai-based child porn site. On September 14th, Investigators alongside State Police executed a search warrant of the defendant's home on Route 474 in Clymer, where Aikens admitted he viewed child pornopgrahy and that it would be found on his laptop. Police reportedly seized a laptop and other devices, which contained a total on 683 video and 22 images of minors less than 12 years old. Prosecutors say some of the evidence also contained sadistic, masochistic or other depictions of violence. Aikens is scheduled for sentencing on October 24th, 2019. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

 

A Falconer man has been killed in a two-car crash on Interstate 70 -- just west of Columbus, Ohio......  

The Ohio State Highway Patrol tells us that 20 year-old Matthew Eskeli-the-fourth was driving a Ford Focus eastbound about 2:30 AM Tuesday when his car was struck from behind by a BMW.  Patrol officials say the BMW, driven by 37 year-old Mark Terrell of South Charleston, Ohio, was apparently speeding when his car struck the left side of Eskeli's vehicle and, it stuck a light pole and flipped upside down.  Eskeli was flown to Miami Valley Hospital in Springfield, Ohio, where he later died.  His front seat passenger, a 21 year-old from Brockport, New York, was seriously hurt.  A backseat passenger, a 22 year-old Corning resident, suffered minor injuries.  Neither Terrell nor his passenger were hurt.  Police say alcohol may have been a factor in the accident.


Flames have destroyed a trailer home in the Frewsburg-area....  

Sheriff's Department dispatchers say Frewsburg fire crews were called to the scene at the Homestead Trailer Park about 12:30 yesterday afternoon.  The occupants had gotten out safely but, the trailer appeared to be a total loss.  Kiantone fire crews assisted at the scene and, the cause is under investigation.

 

A north county woman has been indicted by a Chautauqua County Grand Jury on a charge of second degree manslaughter in the stabbing death of a 15-year-old girl.....  

District Attorney Patrick Swanson says that 26-year-old Ashlyann Lopez-Lopez of Dunkirk was arraigned in Chautauqua County Court on Monday.

Lopez-Lopez was originally charged with first degree manslaughter.  Swanson explained the difference in the charges, saying that first-degree manslaughter has an intent to "cause serious injury in which results in death."  He says there is more "recklessness" in second-degree.  Jefrena Brown was stabbed on the 100 block of Lincoln Avenue on May 15th and, died a day later at the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.


All 11 County Republican Committee Chairmen in New York's 23rd Congressional District have voted to endorse local Congressman Tom Reed for re-election....  

In a press release late yesterday, Reed's Campaign said the chairs cited Reed's "commitment to fairness and accessibility, and his record of standing with us in the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes and Western New York."  Among the chairs on hand for the unanimous vote was Chautauqua County Chairman, David Wilfong, who says Reed is a "strong advocate for Chautauqua County."  Reed is seeking a sixth-term in the U-S House of Representatives in 2020.


It's been a very good past two-years for a Jamestown-area maker of ready-to-assemble furniture.....  

Bush Industries is celebrating it's 60th anniversary this year and, they are looking to even bigger and better things ahead.  That's because they have been approved to bid on New York state contracts, both locally and elsewhere.  That from Director of Inside Sales, Peggy Brown, who says they were approved for their first general state contract back in late May.

Brown says it's the culmination of about 10 years of work to get the state contract after they got their first federal contract in 2009.  She says it's a furniture contract allowing them to bid on selling and installing products to schools, state universities, and state-wide agencies.  In addition, Brown says Bush has expanded it's total operation by 50-percent over the past two years.  While they are well-staffed... she says they're always looking for qualified people to work.  For more information on work opportunities at Bush Industries, contact Angie Turner in their Human Resources Department at 665-2000.

WJTN News Headlines for July 2, 2019

Jamestown's Development Director, Vince DeJoy, is stepping outside his official role to provide financing for the reopening of Friendly's as 'Jimmy's Family Restaurant' next month....  

Standing outside the Brooklyn Square location Monday afternoon, DeJoy said he 'could not stand to see this place closed for as long as it was'.  DeJoy says he and his family have put together a $155,000 package under the corporate name 'Jamestown DJF'.  The county IDA is contributing $55,000 from the Community Revolving Loan Fund.  DeJoy said his family is providing the rest.  The day to day operations of 'Jimmy's Family Restaurant' will be handled by Marcy Parenti, the manager of Friendly's until it closed.  She says the new restaurant will have the same family feel as Friendly's, and groups, organizations and schools will be welcome.  DeJoy emphasized there will be no direct city involvement in new restaurant, and his role will be behind the scenes.  Regarding the chance for a major franchise in the Brooklyn Square location, DeJoy said building's owner made an effort to find an operator, but no one called back. 
----
WJTN's Saturday Breakfast Party broadcast from Frienldy's for many years and has recently relocated to the DoubleTree by Hilton, where it will remain. 


The community group that now owns the Jamestown Jammers summer collegiate baseball team has taken another step forward in resuming play in the Perfect Game League next season....  

It also provides another link to the city's baseball past, as Frank Fanning has been hired as general manager.  The Jammers made the announcement Monday afternoon.  He is the son of former Jamestown Expos General Manager Jim Fanning, who later worked with Montreal, and the Colorado Rockies.  Frank Fanning worked in various capacities with the Vermont Lake Monsters the past two seasons, first heading up the box office in 2017.

Fanning says he spent last season as the Director of Team Operations for Vermont last season.  The Lake Monsters, incidently, is the same organization that was moved by Montreal from Jamestown to Burlington, Vermont, several years ago.  That team is still part of the Class-A New York-Penn League.  It is now an affiliate of the Oakland A's.  Prior to being in baseball, he was involved in radio sales and promotions in London, Ontario.


An alleged sex offender arrested back in May now faces more charges after allegedly getting a Bemus Point woman to help him communicate with a child he had been ordered to stay away from.......  

Sheriff's officers say they arrested, and charged 33 year-old Richard Lafrance -- who's already a county jail inmate -- with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child.  The woman accused of helping Lafrance contact the juvenile victim, 35 year-old Olive Hardinger, was arrested last Friday.  She was issued an appearance ticket for endangering the welfare of a child.  Lafrance was returned to the county lock-up following his arraingment.


A Clymer man is being held pending arraignment following a domestic disturbance in the Town Sunday night.... 

Deputies responded to a residence on Mohawk Street for the incident, where witnesses said 58 year-old Timothy Drayton allegedly threw a wooden board through a window and struck several children.  Officers say Drayton is also accused of pushing a child to the ground.  He was sent to the County Jail for two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and one-count of second-degree harrassment. Drayton will appear in Clymer Court at a later date. 


Chautauqua County officials are hoping for more weather like Monday's with reconstruction work on the $3-million Harrison Street Bridge project in Jamestown....  

The span, which crosses the Chadakoin River in Brooklyn Square, being fully replaced over the next five months.  That from Public Facilities Director Brad Bentley, who says detours have been set-up.  Bentley says if the weather stays like this, it could be completed by Halloween.

The contractor, who is from Lancaster, New York, began the project Monday morning and, detours have been posted for both cars and trucks.  However, Bentley says it's more involved for trucks because trucks can't fit underneath the railroad overpasses, so they will be taken in around the city.  A sign posted in Brooklyn Square states that Harrison Street from Main to Winsor will be closed for the work.  


Media One's annual coverage of the Summer season at Chautauqua Institution is back underway, and, another week of activites is now underway at several venues on the grounds....  

The big event this week will be this Friday night, when legendary singer Diana Ross takes the stage at the Amphitheater.  However, Spokesman Jordan Steves says if you don't already have your ticket, you're out of luck because the concert is sold out.  Steves says the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra has a couple of big programs coming up soon.

Again this season, Steves says they'll be offering a limited amount of "preferred seating" for most major events.  He adds there are a couple of ways to get event tickets  Festival seats are available online at chqtickets.com.  You can also call the Chautauqua Box Office at 357-6250.  Steves says you can also got to the box office in person to buy your tickets for most of the 2,000 events this Summer.

WJTN News Headlines for July 1, 2019

A major, long term street closing in Jamestown starts this morning.... 

The Harrison Street Bridge over the Chadakoin River is going to fully replaced.  The project is set to start at 9 AM today and to take up to five months, meaning thru traffic will be restricted until November.  A sign posted in Brooklyn Square states that Harrison Street from Main to Winsor will be closed for the work.  Separate detours will be posted for cars and trucks.  


A Cleveland, Ohio woman suffered a leg injury after she was thrown off an inner tube being towed on lower Cassadaga Lakes this past weekend...  

Sheriff's officers say 26 year-old Alison Kimborovicz stood up while the tube was in motion and fell off in rough water about 2:30 PM Saturday.  Another person on the tube was not hurt.  Deputies say Kimborovicz was treated for a right thigh injury and later taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for treatment.  The operator of the boat, 61 year-old Holly Kimborovicz of Chardon, Ohio, and her three other passengers in the boat were not hurt.  No charges have been filed in the incident.


The investigation is continuing into a fight in the north county village of Silver Creek this past Thursday night in which a 19 year-old man was dragged a short distance by a car....  

Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene on Drake Avenue about 7 PM and, found the man only sustained some minor injuries.  He was not hospitalized.  No charges have been filed but, deputies says they are continuing to look into the incident.


Local, county and New York state police are targeting reckless, aggressive and impaired drivers in New York during this July 4th week.....  

State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett says troopers will be increasing patrols and conducting sobriety checkpoints from now through Friday.  Chautauqua County Jim Quattrone says that's also the case here because being under the influence of drugs has become as much a problem as driving drunk.

Quattrone adds that there are now plenty of ways to get where you want if you're been celebrating.  Back to the State Police, Corlett says troopers last year issued nearly 10,500 vehicle and traffic tickets during the Fourth of July weekend.  They arrested 216 people for driving while intoxicated and investigated 165 crashes that resulted in four deaths.  In addition to marked state police vehicles, troopers will be using unmarked patrol vehicles that allow them to more easily catch drivers using handheld phones.


It was a "very good" week for the bi-partisan Problem Solvers Caucus in Congress this past week with compromise packages being approved, or moved forward on......  

Local Congressman Tom Reed, who co-chairs the 46 member caucus, says they were able to push through the emergency, $4.5-billion humanitarian aid package for the southern border.  He says they had more than 300 members of the House and, a large marjority of the Senate to back the measure.

The two measures had to be reconciled before the package could be approved and, sent onto the president.  Reed says the White House has indicated it has "no problems" with the funding package.  In addition, Reed says the Problem Solvers, and a group of bi-partisan Senators have announced several "principles" they'll support in legislation to lower prescription drug prices, including price transparency, increased competition, and eliminating patent abuse.  In addition to the Problem Solvers, Reed says Democratic Senator Joe Mancin of West Virginia and Republican Susan Collins of Maine took part in their meeting.  He made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with regional media.


Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf has signed a $34-billion compromise state budget after llawmakers wrapped up the past week with a flurry of votes....  

Wolf made the announcement late Friday, shortly after the Republican-controlled Legislature took its final votes and adjourned for the summer.  The 2019-20 fiscal year starts TODAY.  Healthy state revenues eased pressure on the governor and lawmakers.  The budget carries more money for public schools and universities, holds the line on taxes and stuffs cash into reserve.  Wolf calls it a product of 'divided government' amid criticism from his fellow Democrats.  Republicans prevailed over Democrats' protests to end a decades-old cash assistance program for the destitute deemed temporarily unable to work.  About 10-thousand people were in the program.  Wolf says he's working on ways to help them.


The numbers are in, and the recently concluded New York legislative session was officially one of the most productive in recent history....  

The Senate and Assembly together passed 935 bills in the six-month session that ended this month.  That's 300 more than last year and the most overall in more than a decade.  The measures that passed would create new rental protections for more than a million tenants in and around New York City, further decriminalize marijuana, and institute safeguards for abortion rights and aggressive new targets for emission reductions.  Meanwhile, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, of the Bronx, is heading off on his fourth upstate tour.  He says the tradition helps him better understand the opportunities and challenges facing different regions of the state.

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