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 July 5-12, 2020

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

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Community Spotlight for July 5-12, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 28-July 4, 2020

Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 14-21, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 7-14, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for June 1-7, 2020

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

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

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

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Community Spotlight for May 25-June 1, 2020

Blue Star Mothers local Vice-President Kathy Collver

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

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

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Community Spotlight for May 17-24, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

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

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

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Community Spotlight for May 10-17, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for May 1-3, 2020

Misty Pennington, Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 26-May 2, 2020

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

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 20-26, 2020

Salvation Army of Jamestown Major Kim Merchant

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 12-19, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 5-12, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 29-April 4, 2020

Congressman Tom Reed on Coronavirus stimulus bill

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 22-29, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive Coronavirus Update

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

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

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Coronavirus State of Emergency declaration in Jamestown

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and Jamestown School Superintdent Bret Apthorpe

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 8-15, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 1-8, 2020

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

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

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

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

Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

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

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

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

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

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

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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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Keep Informed
Local News

WJTN Headlines for Sat., July 11, 2020

Posted Today At 12:09pm by Terry Frank

Wendel and Berke express concerns over COVID-19 case spike, and people in isolation or quarantine... Chautauqua County officials are expressing serious concerns about a new peak in COVID-19 cases... ...

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