Community Spotlight
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Community Spotlight | Local Public Affairs Radio Program

By Terry Frank

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

Community Spotlight for Apr. 5-12, 2020

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

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 5-12, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 29-April 4, 2020

Congressman Tom Reed on Coronavirus stimulus bill

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 22-29, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive Coronavirus Update

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

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

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Coronavirus State of Emergency declaration in Jamestown

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and Jamestown School Superintdent Bret Apthorpe

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 8-15, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 1-8, 2020

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

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

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

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

Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 9-16, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

Our Terry Frank talks this week for the first time with Interim Chautauqua County Executive Paul "P.J." Wendel about his first month in office, which he says has been a busy one. He's had to met -- along with other elected officials -- with leaders of Truck-lite about the recent announcement that they will be shutting down the manufacturing part of their plant in Falconer by the end of the year. Wendel says it doesn't appear there will be any changing that decision. However... he says the management will be remaining here. He's more concerned about the closing of TLC/Lakeshore Hospital in Irving... which closed down it's Emergency Department last Sunday with little prior notice. He says the frustrating part of that is they haven't been able to talk with hospital management about it at all. We also discuss his attendance at the recent New York State Association of Counties, and County Executives, in Albany. He says changes to Medicaid, and the new Bail Reform Law were the major topics.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 2-10, 2020

NY State Senator George Borello

February 2nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

This week, our Terry Frank talks with State Senator George Borrello about his being named to co-chair a task force seeking testimony about the need to repeal the state's just-enacted Bail Reform Law. The law has eliminated cash bail for a number of non-violent felony and misdemeanor charges. A number of people who have been released so far with just appearance tickets, and have re-offended. Borrello says they hope to shine a light on the problems with witness testimony from law enforcement officials, and victims of re-offenders. Borrello says he and the co-chair of the committee will convene their first hearing this coming Thursday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m. in Buffalo. He also talks about the Governor's 178-billion dollar budget proposal for fiscal year 2020-2021, and says it really does not address the Medicaid issue, one that's added about 2.5-billion dollars to a projected 6.1-billion dollar deficit for the coming year. He's hoping increased costs will not be up up county governments.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 26-Feb. 1, 2020

Retiring Prendergast Library Director Tina Scott

January 26th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

Retiring director Tina Scott with the James Prendergast Library in Jamestown is our Terry Frank's guest this week, talking about her decision to step aside on Jan. 31, and the library's current fiscal condition. Scott says, while the library is having it's on-going financial issues, she is turning over direction of the library to her top assistant, Annie Green. Green has been managing day-to-day operations for some time now. Scott says, they have been able to get through the past couple of years by using 47, and 40-percent of their endowment funds. However, she says they can't do that long-term. Members of the public will have the chance next May to vote on creating a library tax district to raise a 350,000 dollar local share to replace what the city had been providing many years ago. This year, city lawmakers were able to boost the library's funding from 60,000 to 100,000 dollars. While it's much appreciated, Scott says that's still not enough to leverage state dollars, and meet their budget needs.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 19-26, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi retrospect Pt.2

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

We conclude our two-part retrospect on the career of Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi, and this week delve more into his 20-years in the position. Teresi discussed accomplishments, but, feels the biggest was getting both Democrats and Republicans to work together to do what was best for the city. He felt the time was right to leave office because the city had dug itself out of the financial hole triggered by the Great Recession of 2007-08, and that most of the projects he had been involved in were completed or nearing completion. He was very busy in December finishing up matters to clear the decks for new Mayor Eddie Sundquist to take office on Jan. 1.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 13-20, 2020

Part 1 of Retrospect of Mayor Sam Teresi

January 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank this week begins a two-part retrospect on the long-career at City Hall of former Mayor Sam Teresi. It was part of a long, sit down inview conducted by Terry, Post-Journal City Hall Reporter Dennis Philips, and WRFA-FM News and Public Affairs Director, Jason Sample. During that, Teresi discussed working at the Jamestown High School newpaper, and how an issue about locating a new football field took him to City Hall, where he later worked as an intern, head of the Downtown Jamestown Development Corporation, Dept. of Development Grants Writer, and later Director of Development, up to the time he was elected mayor. Part-Two next week will delve more into his 20 years as mayor.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 5-12, 2020

2019 Year in Review Program

January 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

This week, News Director Terry Frank and Noel Blackhall host our annual Year in Review program, looking back on the top dozen stories of 2019. This year, politics was the biggest story with a new mayor in Jamestown, a new State Senator and new County Executive were the big stories. We also look at stories regarding economic development, public safety, and school safety.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 29-Jan. 4, 2019

Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce

December 29th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank does what's become an annual year in review program with Republican Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce. They discuss the outcome of the November election, and it's impact on the council. Republican's will have their first majority in many years come Jan. 1. Dolce discusses his choices for committee chairpersons. They are Kim Ecklund for the Finance Committee, Brent Sheldon for Public Safety, and Democrats Tom Nelson for Public Works, and Vickye James for Housing. We also discuss Monday night's rescheduled public hearing on the proposed annexation of the Board of Public Utilties' Dow St. Substation in Falconer into the city. The controversial plan was recently restarted by lawmakers at the end of November. Tonight's public hearing begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Jamestown High School auditorium. The council's scheduled voting session will be at City Hall at 6 p.m. The New Year's Day inauguration will begin at 12 Noon on Jan. 1 at Jamestown Community College's Scharman Theater.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 22-29, 2019

Representatives of the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County

December 22nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

This week, our Terry Frank talks with United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Executive Dir. Amy Rohler, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance -- or VITA -- Coordinator Rose Lancione about the current campaign, and start of the VITA Program in early 2020. Rohler says the campaign is a little behind where they usually are, having raised 73.7-percent of their 1.33-million dollar goal. She says they'll be making their push in the next few weeks. We talk with Rose Lancione about the VITA Program, and their effort to get more lower income residents to take advantage of their free program. Person's who don't deal with depreciation or rental properties, and earn less than 56,000-dollars a year are eligible. Last year... the local VITA Program helped just over 800 people reclaimed just over 900,000 dollars in refunds. For more information on the United Way Campaign, or their VITA Program, call 483-1561, or go on-line to uwayscc.org.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 17-22, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

December 15th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank sits down with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi for the final time as mayor on this week's program, and wrap up some "loose ends" before the end of the year. Teresi talks extensively about the reasoning behind the Board of Public Utilities, and city council's decisions to restart the annexation case involving the BPU's Dow Street Substation in Falconer. The city council voted in November, 8-to-1, to start the effort anew. However, once the new city administration takes office, they will have to decide where the process goes after a public hearing is held this week. Teresi says it'll be held at 7 p.m. in the Robert Lee Scharman Theater at Jamestown Community College. Officials from the village of Falconer, town of Ellicott, and Falconer School District have been invited to be part of the hearing, or they could hold their own. We also discuss matters Teresi is taking care of in the final days of his administration, including a charter change for a dual administration post from City Clerk/Dir. of Administrative Services back to City Clerk/Treasurer. We also look back on Teresi's 20 years in office.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 8-15, 2019

NYS Senator George Borrello

December 8th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with State Senator George Borrello, who was recently seated formally as the newest member of the state legislature's upper chamber. Borrello says it's been a very busy time, signing onto a number of existing bills, and working on new ones. He says he has put in for several committee assignments for the new year, including two that retired Senator Cathy Young was involved with: Finance and Agriculture. Borrello adds that he's also hoping to land on at least a couple more, including Transportation, Economic Development and Small Business, Local Government, and a newer one: Domestic Animal Welfare. He says he would like the state legislature to consider enacting an Animal Abuse Registry, similar to the one enacted while he was Chautauqua County Executive, nearly two years ago.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 29- Dec. 1, 2019

Girl Scouts of Western New York

December 2nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 15:22

Noel Blackhall joins Girl Scouts of Western New York Vice President of Marketing and GSWNY Volunteer Joanne Nelson to discuss volunteerism, their roles and how you can get involved. With several different roles from Troop Leader to Service Projects, volunteers male and female are welcomed to the organization. Girl Scouts "unleashes the power of the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)TM in every girl and shows why Girl Scouts is the best leadership development experience for girls in the world—one that is designed with, by, and for girls." For more information, please visit GWSNY.org.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 24-Dec.1, 2019

Meals on Wheels Exec. Director Barrie Yochum

November 24th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Meals on Wheels of the Jamestown Area is celebrating it's 50th anniversary this year, and has served more than 4-million meals to local seniors and other shut-ins in the region. Our Terry Frank talks with MOW Director Barrie Yochum about the origins of the program, which began in 1969, and serve three people on it's first day. The program now feeds several hundred in the county. Yochum says they continue to receive their meals from UPMC Chautauqua Hospital from it's facility at Jones Hill. Yochum says some people, who are income eligible, receive free meals, while others have to pay a modest fee for the meals. Yochum says, in addition to contacting them about receiving meals, you can also contact the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging through their NY Connects telephone service.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 17-24, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

November 17th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi talks with our Terry Frank this week, and gives his impressions of an Election Night he was not part of for the first time in 20 years. He congratulates the winners, and notes that whoever winds up with the majority on City Council, they will have to work together to meet the city's challenges. He talks about the budget process, which resumes on Monday night with a public hearing on the 36.6-million dollar spending plan at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The budget will likely include an additional 150,000-dollars in savings on the city's prescription drug plan. We also discuss the city's Christmas Tree being cut down, and put up on Tracy Plaza for the holiday season.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 11-18, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

November 11th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week, our Terry Frank talks with County Executive and new State Senator-elect George Borrello to talk both county and state issues. We discuss election night last Tuesday, and the fact he's moving towards being sworn-in and taking his new seat in the next two to three-weeks. Borrello says he's looking forward to it, and says one of the first orders of business will be working with other lawmakers to try and get rid of some of the package of criminal justice reforms approved by the state legislature this year. We also discuss news of Athenex losing 34.8-million dollars in the third-quarter of the year. However... he says the bio-pharmacutical company is on schedule to have it's new facility in the town of Dunkirk up and running by the middle of 2020. We also discuss a possible 3 to 4-billion dollar shortfall in the state's current budget, going into the next fiscal year due to issues regarding Medicaid.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 1-3, 2019

Owen Toale -- Male Breast Cancer Survivor

November 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:55

This week's program includes an extended presentation of Noel Blackhall's weekly feature -- "Insights with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center". Noel speaks with Owen Toale, a male breast cancer survivor, who dives into the fight for his life. Owen lives in Medina, New York with his wife and keeps his spirits high with the support of his family and a few rounds of golf when he can. You can read more about Owen's story here -- https://www.roswellpark.org/cancertalk/201910/breast-cancer-men-owens-story

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 27-Nov. 3, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive, and State Senate candidate George Borello

October 28th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with the Republican candidate for the 57th State Senate District, Chautauqua Co. Executive George Borrello. Borrello says he wants to keep the seat in GOP hands to keep some kind of firewall between the NYC and Upstate regions. He says there has been a rash of "radical left" legislative items approved since the Democrats have taken the majority in the state legislature's upper chamber. He says he wants to see policy reversals on matters such as the Farmworker's Fair Labor Act, the SAFE Act, and the Women's Health Care Act that allows for abortions up to birth. He says while Austin Morgan says he will bring the western Southern Tier's voice to the majority table in Albany, it will still be drowned out by downstate liberal Democrats.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 20-27, 2019

Democratic State Senate Candidate Austin Morgan

October 20th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank talks with 57th State Senate candidate Austin Morgan of Freedom, NY, who is a Democrat. Morgan says he is the blue-collar, middle class candidate in the race... having grown up in a family that "had to count pennies." He says it's important to have someone "at the table" when budget-time comes around because he would be in the majority in the Senate. He says he supports changes to improve the Farmworkers Fair Labor Act, and other measures that have hurt the western Southern Tier. Morgan says that, while Republican George Borrello may have more "government experience" that doesn't help when you're in the minority. Morgan is a recent graduate of Cornell University who says it's time to get rid of the "business executives and career politicans in Albany. He's also been endorsed by the Working Families Party in his run for the Senate.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 13-20, 2019

Republican Jamestown Mayoral candidate David Wilfong

October 13th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:37

We resume our election previews this week with our third and final program on the candidates running for Jamestown city mayor. Republican David Wilfong entered the race this past Spring, after current Mayor Sam Teresi decided against running for another term. Wilfong says he thought about running after he had retired from his current job managing a cleaning and maintenance firm out of Olean, NY. Wilfong says he wants to make Jamestown more "business-friendly," noting that it has not been. He feels the city needs more "shovel-ready" sites for businesses that want to expand, or build new, like Naco Trucking. That firm, along with it's parent company, the Stannard Group, is moving to the Mason Industrial Park in the town of Ellicott because it has the space available. Wilfong believes it's time to tear down what's left of the old, abandoned and outdated industrial buildings in the city. He believes it's the best way to help grow the local tax base. He adds that he's also the only person experienced in working on a budget as a county legislator, and hold down taxes. Wilfong is also endorsed by the Conservative Party in his run for mayor.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 6-13, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

October 6th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:25

We had hoped to have Jamestown Mayoral candidate David Wilfong on this week, but, a family emergency arose, and we had a lengthy interview with current Mayor Sam Teresi -- portions of which we have put together for a program. Our Terry Frank and former WJTN Reporter Jason Sample from WRFA-FM ask the questions regarding City Council approval of a new, three-year agreement with 58 city parks and public works employees represented by AFSCME, and, a 12.65-million dollar bonding measure that's part of Teresi's proposed "Smart City Capital Investment" program. Teresi notes that the equipment, purchases, and facility upgrades will be acted on separately, though.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 29-Oct. 5, 2019

Libertarian Jamestown Mayoral candidate Andrew Liuzzo

September 29th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks this week with Libertarian Jamestown Mayoral Candidate Andrew Liuzzo, who says his main reason for running is because "I care" about the city he loves, and providing more opportunities for the young people who live here. Liuzzo says he believes this starts with the people living here, and having to be better neighbors to each others. Liuzzo says there are homegrown businesses that are still here, and the potential is there for more of this. He says allowing for construction of pre-fabricated homes may be a way to get the hundreds of empty lots in the city refilled with residences. He has been a business owner, and manager, and worked in occupational rehabilitation services for 18 years before he retired. He's currently an at-large city councilman who is in his first term. Liuzzo announced last February he was running for the Republican nomination, but, was defeated by nominee David Wilfong last June.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 23-30, 2019

Jamestown Democratic Mayoral Candidate Eddie Sundquist

September 23rd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:35

This week, our Terry Frank begins previewing the upcoming elections in Jamestown and Chautauqua County with Democratic Mayoral Candidate Eddie Sundquist. Sundquist is a Jamestown native, who returned a few years ago to begin practicing law at the firm of Lewis and Lewis. Sundquist says he wants to be elected to move the city forward to what he calls a "21st Century" community. He says that involves using technology to attract new business, industry, and residents. Sundquist says, unlike his opponents, he wants to see more reuse of old vacant commercial and industrial buildings, and he believes that it's best to keep the city under control of local residents, as opposed to a state Control Board. Sundquist says he is concerned that the city will make a decision on the direction it will go before the end of current Mayor Sam Teresi's term, and the next mayor will have to "live with that."

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WJTN News Headlines for Sept. 15-22, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

September 15th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week with a reflection back on the "9/11" terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and in Pennsylvania. Teresi was finishing up his second-year in office, and recalls the day vividly, and remembers being taken to the emergency command center in the basement of city hall until it was known what was taking place. We also discuss his proposed 13-million dollar "Smart City Capital Improvement" program, which he says is "affordable" for the city, and includes a number of purchases of equipment that are needed for the Fire and Public Works Departments. It also includes a 6.9-million dollar Central Fleet Maintenance Building. The city would borrow about 9.4-million for the program. We also discuss the first-phase being underway in the 325,000 dollar Riverwalk Illumination Project that would include decorative lighting in the downtown area at night.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 8-15, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

September 8th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks this week with Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello on a variety of topics, includling this week's film shoot for "A Quiet Place -2" at Barcelona Harbor near Westfield. The film's producers, including Star John Krasinski, have been in Western New York filming portions of the sci-fi thriller. We also discuss two branding and marketing campaigns taking place in the county. One is the "Find Yourself" in Chautauqua County, which talks about the positive aspects of the county for business people, and people looking for a nice place to move to. The other involves the branding and marketing of the county's more than 40-miles of overland trails. We also discuss the Westfield First Responders Memorial and other matters as time allowed.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 1-8, 2019

Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers

September 1st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank speaks with Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers about a number of topics, including the recent approval of a new, 15-year extension of the BPU -- and 50 other utilities and cooperatives -- agreements with the New York Power Authority. The hydropower agreement provides that vast majority of the city's low cost power. We also briefly discuss the Fourth Appellate Division's recent denial of the city's annexation case involving the BPU's Dow Street Substation over a technicality. Lower courts had not ruled on that previously, but, the merits of the case. We also discuss Fall Water Main flushing... which takes place in about a month in early Oct., as well as budgeting for the BPU's five divisions.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 23-25, 2019

Jamestown School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe

August 26th, 2019 05:00am | Duration: 14:22

For a back-to-school special, our Noel Blackhall sits down with JPS Superintendent Dr. Bret Apthorpe. The two discuss new personnel changes, goals for the 2019-2020 school year and more!

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 18-25, 2019

Local 23rd Congressional Rep. Tom Reed

August 18th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:10

This week, we high-light comments made by 23rd Congressional District Rep. Tom Reed of Corning. The Republican held his weekly conference call after a week off, and discussed a number of items, but, the main one was gun violence and gun control. Reed, a Republican, says he doesn't want to address an "object," but, deal with the people behind what's going on. He says people who are seriously mentally ill or psychotic and have shown violent tendancies should not be allowed to have a gun. He again pushed back on gun control efforts, including the banning of assault rifles, or high-capacity gun magazines. He also talked about his writing a letter to U-S Attorney General Bill Barr about the need for Felony charges to be brought against people who douse police officers -- as happened twice in New York City recently -- with water or some other liquid or substance.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 9-11th, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

August 12th, 2019 05:35am | Duration: 14:27

In this lighthearted episode of "Community Spotlight", our Noel Blackhall speaks with the City of Jamestown's Mayor Teresi. The pair dive into the emergency demolition of the Arcade Building, what's next for Potter's Terrace, second-quarter sales tax revenues, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival and more.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 4-11, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

August 4th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello about the Summer tourism season being in full-swing... including Chautauqua Institution, the Gerry Rodeo, and the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival. He also talks about the impact a year later of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, which opened on Aug. 1, 2018. We also talk at length about the Harmful Algal Blooms that have returned to Chautauqua Lake, and forced the closing of beaches in Lakewood and Long Point State Park. Borrello also addresses an on-line concern stated at least one person, who was concerned that we are "losing the lake." He believes that's not true, and, says overall it's been a pretty good Summer. We also discuss the start of budget work for 2020. The new budget must be presented to the county legislature by Sept. 25.

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Community Spotlight for July 28-Aug. 3, 2019

National Comedy Center Exec. Director Journey Gunderson

July 28th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Two full-weeks with many of the top names in comedy is set to bring in Jamestown and Chautauqua Instition, and our Terry Frank talks with National Comedy Center Director Journey Gunderson all about it. Gunderson also talks about how the Comedy Center has done as it nears it's first-year anniversary on Thurs., August 1. She says the week at Chautauqua with the theme "What's Funny," kicks off Monday morning on the Amphitheater Stage with Tom and Dick Smothers being interviewed on the 50th anniversary of the cancellation of their controversial "Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour." Later in the week, David Steinberg and Lewis Black talk about the legendary career of the late Robin Williams. The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival returns to Jamestown on Aug. 7-11, and will feature two of the hottest names in stand-up comedy, John Mulany, and Sebastian Maniscalco. For information on Chautauqua events go on-line to ciweb.org... for the festival, go to comedycenter.org.

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Community Spotlight for July 21-28, 2019

Gerry Rodeo Spokesman Paul Cooley

July 21st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Gerry Rodeo Spokesman Paul Cooley joins our Terry Frank this week to preview the upcoming 75th annual Rodeo at the grounds off Route 60. Cooley says the grounds are pretty much ready for action. With the 75th anniversary, he says they have a number of special activities going on... including fireworks each night after the rodeo events, and they'll have a reunion of sorts for past Rodeo Queens. Cooley says they'll also have the annual Kids Rodeo. The rodeo begins on Wed. night, July 31 and continues each night through Sat. Aug. 3rd at 8 pm each night. Cooley says the rodeo will have it's famous Beef Barbecue dinners each night at 5 pm for patrons. He says they also have more vendors this year selling food and other items. For ticket and other information, Cooley says you can go on-line to www.gerryrodeo.org... or call 985-4847.

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Community Spotlight for July 14-21, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

July 14th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks at length with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week about his administration's handling of Development Director Vince DeJoy's decision to be the principal investor in the new "Jimmy's Hometown Restaurant at the former Friendly's location in Brooklyn Square. Teresi says it was a surprise when DeJoy first came into his office to make sure it would be okay to do. Teresi says they reviewed the city charter, and ethics rules, and found that... since he's investing 155,000 dollars of his own money, and not seeking any support from the city, it would be alright. Teresi adds that the New York City owner of the property had been unable in three months to find anyone else to take it over. We also discuss the fact the Jamestown Jammers now have all the main pieces in place to resume play in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League in 2020. He likes the additions of General Manager Frank Farrell, and Field Manager Jordan Basile.

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Community Spotlight for July 8-15, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

July 8th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks with County Executive George Borrello this week on his recent victory in the Republican Primary to run for the 57th State Senate District Race... which was fueled by receiving about 92-percent of the vote in Chautauqua County. He also talks about the recent election of Erie County's Nick Langworthy as the new Chairman of the State GOP. Borrello believes Langworthy brings new energy to the party as it looks to get back some of the seat it lost in the State Senate last year. We also discuss development issues, along with what will be the final LECOM Health Challenge Golf Tournament at the Peek 'n Peak Resort in Findley Lake. LECOM will not be back as title sponsor next year, so the county is looking for a new sponsor, as well as partners to help put on the event.

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Community Spotlight for June 24-July 1, 2019

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Director Tory Irgang

June 25th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

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

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Community Spotlight for June 16-23, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

June 16th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:45

City matters are in the spotlight this week with Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi joining our Terry Frank to talk about the annual meeting of the American Public Power Producers Association in Austin, TX. Teresi says the conference focused on everything from renewables, to the newest in electric cars. He also discussed the recent decision by Stannard Group, Inc., to consolidate it's three operations in the town of Ellicott on 10 to 25 acres of land. Unlike what had been stated by a member of the public at a recent city council meeting, Teresi says finding enough available land, not taxes, was the overriding issue. We also talk about a recent investigation by Teresi, Corporation Counsel Peter Larson, and the Jamestown Renaissance Corp. Zach Agett about the city's Special Use Permit, and how those are handled. They recently addressed concerns by former downtown businessman, Gary Templin, about that matter. We also talk about the effort to develop a kayak launch at the McCrae Point Boat Launch.

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Community Spotlight for Jun. 7th-9th, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello

June 7th, 2019 09:00pm | Duration: 14:25

The County Executive is in-house this week to speak on the expansion of two local businesses; two new wings of UPMC Chautauqua Hospital; the Hope and Healing Conference of Western New York and more.

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Community Spotlight for June 2-9, 2019

Chautauqua Co. Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

June 2nd, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank spotlights Older Americans Month in the county -- and nation -- with County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos. Spanos says the number of seniors is increasing, and their needs are increasing. She's pleased that Gov. Andrew Cuomo agreed to give OFA offices state-wide an additional 15-million dollars to eliminate waiting lists. She says that list had grown to 200 in Chautauqua County. She says the county is geting another 478,000 dollars in state funding. She also discusses their programs for in-home care, and programs to assist caregivers. Spanos adds their annual Senior Day Picnic at Midway State Park will be held on July 19th.

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Community Spotlight for May 28-June 2, 2019

Chautauqua Lake and Watershed Management Alliance Chairman Pierre Chagnon

May 28th, 2019 12:00am

We delve further into the issues surrounding Chautauqua Lake this week with Lake and Watershed Management Alliance Chairman Pierre Chagnon. Our Terry Frank talks with Mr. Chagnon at first about the six-year-old alliance, and it's founding as an umbrella organization that can go after funding to help deal with the invasive weed and algal bloom issues. Chagnon says, during the time it's been together, the alliance has been able to bring in about 6-million-dollars for various lake projects. Those also include stream bank restoration, and other work in the watershed areas to keep nutrients -- namely phosphorus -- from getting into the lake.

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Community Spotlight for May 19-26, 2019

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi

May 19th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank is joined by Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi this week to talk about a number of topics... namely the recently concluded New York State Conference of Mayor's annual meeting in Cooperstown. Teresi say they elected officers, and outlined their agenda for the rest of the state legislative session. He says they would like to see state reimbursements to the 38 communities that the state contracts with to maintain New York roads and highways in those communities addressed. Teresi says that number has remained 70-cents per square yard for the past 32 years. He says Jamestown receives 203,000 a year... but, should be receiving about half-a-million dollars each year. He adds that "Extreme Winter Aid" should also be restored. We also talk about the city taking on a record 140 street and highway, and other capital projects this Summer. Much of that will be funded through the state's Consolidated Highway Improvement Program -- or CHIPS funding. We also talk about the Western New York Regional Economic Development Corporation, or REDC's first meeting of the ninth-round of funding in Fredonia.

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Community Spotlight for May 12-19, 2019

Military Makeover feature with Montel Williams

May 12th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi was out of town on business most of the past week... and, with that, our Terry Frank features the recent Military Makeover of the Ashville home of Afghanistan War veteran Cody Willett. Willett applied for a makeover, and he and his family were selected. The show's host, TV Talk Show legend Montel Williams was in town of much of the past 7 to 10 days, and talked with Terry for about 10 minutes about the program, it's goals, and how he is doing with his MS, and stroke over the past year. He also talks with the head of the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program for veteran's in Chautauqua County, Cindy Reidy. Reidy talks about the program, which is state-funded, and how it has helped local veterans with their transition back to civilian life.

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Community Spotlight for May 5-12, 2019

Chautauqua County Executive George Borello

May 5th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with County Executive George Borrello on a number of topics, including the major effort to clean-up the "weed mass" that was left late last Fall along the shoreline of Burtis Bay in Chautauqua Lake. Borrello says several pieces of machinery were staged early last week, and clean-up should take just over two-weeks. He adds they are also aware of the pilot program involving the Chautauqua Lake Partnership, and a Great Lakes group to put sensors in a couple of spots on the lake that may be at high-risk for harmful algal blooms. He says it's similar to something done in Lake George, which saw a large number of algal blooms at one time. We also discuss a 2-million-dollar state grant being provided to the county to help with treating those dealing with opioid drug addiction. We also talk about what appears to be a more collaborative effort between the Southern Tier, and Jamestown Metro Drug Task Forces.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 26-28, 2019

Jamestown School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe

April 29th, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 12:06

Jamestown Public Schools recently adopted a spending plan for the 2019-2020 school year. With that, Dr. Apthorpe sits down with our Noel Blackhall to dive into everything including in the 90.7-million budget. Additionally, a search for a principal for Jamestown High School is close to fruition. Apthorpe discusses how to search has gone and when a new head of academia will be announced.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 21-28, 2019

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Mgr. Dave Leathers

April 21st, 2019 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Board of Public Utilities General Manager Dave Leathers about a number of topics, including first-quarter performance of the BPU's five divisions. Leathers says they had a good first three months of 2019, adding there were no rate increases included for any of the divisions. He says the earliest they may consider an Electric rate hike would be late in 2020. He says the concluded the two-year, 5.7-million dollar boiler dismantling project on time, and under budget. He adds they are also right about where they expected to be from a budget stand-point regarding legal expenses for the city's proposed annexation of land the BPU's Dow Street Substation is located on in the village of Falconer, near the city line. We also discuss recycling efforts, and where those stand.

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Local News

WJTN News Headlines for Apr. 7, 2020

Posted Yesterday At 5:09am

A second person from Chautauqua County has now died from the COVID-19 Virus.  County Executive P-J Wendel said Monday that the man, who was in his 70s, had recently contracted the virus.  We...

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