Alfred Station man faces charges at Steuben County Jail

Obituary: Deborah Sue Blakeslee, 59, Cuba

Deborah Sue Blakeslee passed away peacefully June 29, 2017, at Cuba Memorial Hospital, Cuba, NY, surrounded by her two best friends, Elizabeth Kratts and Carol Truesdell Ottman. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents Wayne (Bud) and Audrey (Murray) Blakeslee and her niece Audriana Marie Evans (Tamara). Debbie is survived by her sister Tamara (Blakeslee) Vinet, her niece Nevaeh Jean and her great niece Lilah Rose. Debbie was born November 20, 1957, in Olean, NY, and was a lifelong resident of Cuba. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Cuba. Deb touched so many lives with her bright light and loving soul. She was always happy and had a smile for you. She enjoyed long walks, her family, her dogs, and children. There will be a service for Debbie, Friday, July 7, 2017, at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull St., Cuba. Calling hour will be from 10-11 a.m. at which time funeral services will be held.  Claudia Little will officiate.   In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.

GOVERNOR SIGNS LEGISLATION BY SENATOR YOUNG FOR FLOOD ASSISTANCE

ALBANY – Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I- 57th District) announced that Governor Cuomo has signed into law her $7 million flood relief legislation that was included in the recently passed omnibus package.

Communities in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties received significant damage during the July 2015 storm.  Culverts and roads were heavily damaged, costing local governments and taxpayers millions of dollars since the weather event was not widespread enough to qualify for a FEMA disaster declaration. 

Since then, Senator Young has passed the relief package multiple times, but it had not been taken up by the Assembly.  She successfully pushed to include it with Lake Ontario flooding assistance in a comprehensive bill that wrapped up the legislative session this week.

"I didn't give up on getting this done since it is so important,” said Senator Young.  “Our local property taxpayers need relief from the heavy price tag to fix our damaged infrastructure. This funding will give communities the resources they need to alleviate this burden while ensuring safety for the people who live there.  I applaud the Governor for approving this sorely-needed assistance.” 

In Cattaraugus County, the damage to municipal property, including road washouts and damaged drainage and culvert systems totaled $1,016,047.  In Allegany County, the damage to municipal property, including road washouts and damaged drainage and culvert systems totaled $1,600,840. Chautauqua County also suffered significant damage across multiple municipalities, including damage to drainage and culvert systems, road washouts, and damage to traffic control devices which totaled $4,332,265. 

PRESS RELEASE: Reed Announces Grant for Portville STEAM Program

Portville, NY- Congressman Tom Reed announced the approval for a $146,368 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to the Portville Central School. The grant is designated for the STEAM Envisioneering Center that will help students develop their abilities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
“This grant is a win for over 1,000 students and community members who will have the opportunity to develop key skills that are vital in today’s workforce.  I was happy to recommend that ARC provide full and fair consideration to the grant request last year. We must work to train individuals for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” Reed stated.
The Envisioneering Center will be developed in partnership with Case Western Reserve University and will give students and community members the opportunity to develop technological competencies in the operation of specialized high tech equipment. 
Congressman Tom Reed’s office provided a letter in support of the grant to be included in Portville Central School’s request to the ARC.

Steuben reminds residents to register for CodeRED

BATH -- With summer storm season approaching, Steuben County officials remind residents to be sure they are registered for emergency notifications. The system, called CodeRED, allows officials to quickly send emergency calls to land-line and cell phones, text or email messages to residents in the affected area.

County officials will use the system to call residents in case of hazardous material evacuations, floods or other emergencies.
The system’s database is updated annually in January and includes most residential and business telephone numbers in the county, county 911 Deputy Director Tina Goodwin said. "We want to ensure is that everyone who wants to be notified is on the list," said county Office of Emergency Services Director Tim Marshall. "For example, folks whose land lines or cell phone number or addresses have changed since January. This is especially important for people in remote areas and our elderly residents who may only have a land-line phone." Other important information includes whether the individual’s primary phone is a cell phone or "internet phone (VOIP)," and email addresses. Residents may visit the CodeRED website at www.steubencony.org, located at the bottom of the home page or call (607) 664-2996 (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday).

Kraft-Heinz plant in Steuben County has been purchased, jobs saved

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced an agreement has been reached that will save the at-risk Kraft-Heinz facility in Campbell, Steuben County, as well as at least 150 current employees. Upstate Niagara, a dairy farmer cooperative that includes member farms from multiple regions in Upstate New York, will acquire Kraft’s Campbell facility and has committed to investing $10 million in new machinery and equipment, while retaining as many existing workers as possible.

“This agreement gives this facility a new lease on life, where it will continue to be an economic engine and major employer in the Campbell community for years to come,” Governor Cuomo said “Make no mistake: This plant was in real danger of closing, which would have been devastating locally and caused ripple effects across the entire region and New York's dairy industry. I thank Senator Schumer for working with us on finding this great upstate company to purchase this factory and helping to ensure the future of this and the other Kraft-Heinz plants that were facing imminent shutdowns.”

“This agreement that Governor Cuomo and I put together with Kraft-Heinz is news we should all say ‘cheese about,'" Senator Schumer said. " Working together through many challenges – for over a year – we went from a grim situation, where the Campbell plant was on the verge of being boarded up, to where we are today: an Upstate New York company will buy the plant and keep it open for business – to the great benefit of scores and scores of the plant’s workers, as well as for regional dairy farmers and the local economy. I am hopeful with New York’s investment to modernize the Campbell plant there is a very real prospect we will be growing jobs here in the near future.”

Upstate Niagara, a farm and dairy cooperative that has grown to include members from Western New York, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Central New York, North Country, and the Mohawk Valley, began producing great tasting, high-quality dairy products in 1971. What began as Upstate Milk grew steadily for years and then more rapidly in recent years, recent in the purchase of additional fluid and manufacturing facilities across Upstate New York, from Buffalo to Batavia and Rochester, and up to North Lawrence. With over 360 family-owned and operated farms, Upstate Niagara Cooperative is one of the largest and most stable dairy cooperatives in the United States.

In November 2015, Governor Cuomo and Senator Schumer worked with Kraft-Heinz officials to reach an agreement that would prevent the closure of three facilities and layoffs for nearly 1,000 employees in multiple locations in Upstate New York. Under the agreement, Kraft-Heinz continued operating the Avon, Walton and Lowville plants while investing tens of millions of dollars into mod?ernizing operations. Additionally, Kraft-Heinz deferred its planned closure of the fourth facility, the Campbell plant, for one to two years, during which time the company worked with state, federal and local officials to identify a new operator.

Upstate Niagara has also reached an agreement with Empire State Development, committing to invest $10 million and retain the remaining 125 jobs and grow employment back to no less than 150 within one year. In return ESD has offered a grant of up to $5 million to assist with transitioning the facility, including the purchase and installation of machinery and equipment. 

“We’re thrilled to announce that Upstate Niagara Cooperative has agreed to purchase our Campbell dairy facility and has signed a long-term co-packing agreement with Kraft Heinz,” said Michael Mullen, SVP of Corporate & Government Affairs at The Kraft Heinz Company. “This deal guarantees that at least 125 jobs will remain in Campbell with anticipated growth to 150 within a year, during which and that our business customers will experience zero disruption in the service of our dairy products. As part of our commitment to this transaction, Kraft Heinz has pledged an ongoing investment of $3 to 5 million to improve and maintain the Campbell facility.”

“We look forward to adding the Campbell cheese facility to our organization in the coming weeks,” stated Larry Webster, CEO of Upstate Niagara Cooperative. “As a dairy cooperative owned by farm families throughout the region, this acquisition is an investment by our member owners towards continued and long-term growth for our cooperative and the Campbell facility. We are proud to be able to keep manufacturing jobs within the community while offering additional products and manufacturing capabilities to our customers.”

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said: “This transaction has been one of the Governor’s highest priorities and I'm pleased that ESD could help Kraft-Heinz and Upstate Niagara reach a deal to transition to new owners, while modernizing the plant and saving at least 150 jobs. The dairy economy is critical to our upstate economy and Governor Cuomo prioritizes it as such. Economic development is a team sport, and we also thank our partners at the Steuben County IDA for their great teamwork in finding a successful resolution.”

The 2015 agreement came following the merger of Kraft and the H. J. Heinz Company that summer. The merger triggered an internal company review which put the facilities at Avon, Walton, Lowville and Campbell in line for closure – thereby reducing their total employment in New York State by nearly 1,000 jobs. Upon hearing of the merger and associated review, Governor Cuomo contacted Kraft-Heinz CEO Bernardo Hees to express the urgency of retaining employment in New York, and worked collaboratively with the company and Senator Schumer in negotiating a deal to save as many jobs as possible and ensure future investment and growth.

View from a Drone: AU students work to make drone flight useful for Southern Tier farming

The view above Jericho Hill

The Saxon Fly website describes the Alfred University student group as “ a collaboration of both a drone club for fun and a legitimate drone-related business” with “big plans for the future.”
Those plans include a grant proposal submitted to the Appalachian Regional Commission for for the training of Alfred University and business students to fly and repair drones and to develop the capacity to store and interpret data collected by a drone. Luis Rodriguez, Assistant Professor of Law/Taxation at Alfred University, submitted the application on June 15th to Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board, in Salamanca, N.Y., and ARC with the assistance of Dean Nancy Evangelista of the College of Professional Studies.
Don’t expect squadrons of drones flying over Alfred anytime soon. Jason St. John, an Alfred University Finance major and the newly elected president of Saxon Fly, notes commercial drone pilots need a license in order to operate a drone.
St. John says he’s optimistic, however. A rising senior, he hopes to use the 2017-18 academic year to expand Saxon Fly membership from about 10 students to 20-25, and continue developing the club’s marketing studies in order to provide drone-based data collection services to Southern Tier farms.
“We’ve researched the local area to assess interest among local farmers for drone surveys of their land,” he says. So far, local farmers have expressed an interest in using drones to survey their lands for the purposes of irrigation and fertilizing. St. John wants to survey a larger area, pushing further into Allegany County.
He also notes Saxon Fly is more than a group of entrepreneurial business students. The club is a meeting place for students from both Alfred University’s Business and Engineering schools.
Engineering students became more actively involved in the project during the 2016-17 academic year, as Saxon Fly worked on building and maintaining a drone and flying it over Jericho Hill. Alfred University Professor Mechanical Engineer Seong-Jin Lee notes the project requires the skills of students with expertise both in robotics and mechanical engineering. Economics  Professor Sangjoon Lee, and Professors Seong-Jin Lee and Luis Rodriguez have been faculty advisors to Saxon Fly since 2015.
From St. John’s perspective, the project is an opportunity to exercise the skills of entrepreneurship. “Our main purpose is to gain entrepreneurial experience,” he says. “This is a way to get real world experience.”
Rodriguez adds, “I’m always telling my student, ‘Eventually, you have to work with engineers,’”

Allentown man arrested on Steuben County warrant

Law enforcement to be available for municipal courts in Steuben

BATH – Towns and villages in Steuben County will be able to increase the court security, after county legislators approved Monday a shared services agreement allowing trained and qualified law enforcement officers to be present at the request of a justice during standard court hours.

The municipality requesting the security would pay an hourly rate for the service, based on the individual officer’s overtime rate, county Sheriff Jim Allard said.
The proposed agreement is the result of requests by the towns of Dansville and Hornellsville, and will be an option for any municipality considering ways to improve their court security, Allard said.
The county Legislature also approved setting up an optional shared services agreement with towns using Steuben’s tax collection software to allow town taxpayers to pay current year taxes via credit card. Existing convenience fees would be paid by the taxpayer using the service.

Steuben lawmakers also accepted $863,000 from the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to develop, consolidate and/or improve public safety communications for first responders. Other action included:
*Authorizing the Commissioner of Public Works to implement the following tipping fees: $10 per ton for low-moderate strength leachate and $15 per ton for high strength leachate, effective July 1.
* Accepting a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant to install water and sewer improvements for the Woodlands project in Hornellsville.
* Reappointing members to the Corning Community College Regional Board of Trustees.

County Administrator Boyde Issues Press Release Regarding County Wide Shared Services Initiative

Belmont NY.   The Allegany Shared Services Committee met on June 6 and June 27, 2017, to discuss possible options for the combining of services that could potentially lead to property tax reductions in the 2018 fiscal year.  The meetings were held to comply with legislation passed in the recent budget cycle compelling counties to convene a County Wide Shared Services Initiative (CWSSI) panel.  The panel is mandated to submit a full plan to the Board of Legislators no later than September 15 outlining proposed cost saving initiatives.  The same legislation requires counties to develop and submit a shared services plan with the certified tax savings amount(s) to the Department of Budget by October 1, 2017. 

The CWSSI legislation promulgates the potential to receive dollar for dollar savings in the year following the proposed tax saving measures.  Those savings would be redistributed, as appropriate, to participating towns, villages, and/or county based on the level and type of services being shared.  This is a one-time opportunity and is limited to new initiatives.  Any shared services arrangements currently in place will not meet the intent of this legislation.  There is no recognition for past or current efforts that have resulted in reduced property taxes.

A total of 35 individuals have attended both meetings including elected town, village, and members of the Board of Legislators.  Topics for potential shared services included: shared assessors, shared code enforcement, opportunities to participate in shared health care arrangements, combination of local courts, central booking, county-wide tax collection, and shared water services.  Certain components discussed will require enabling legislation at the state level to achieve.  Others will require a substantial amount of planning/coordination to implement.

In recognition of the very tight timelines and complexity of the task(s), the Allegany CWSSI panel has decided to use the balance of 2017 and available time in 2018 to fully develop a meaningful plan that will enable us to achieve both the maximum amount of tax savings and dollar for dollar matching funds.  It is our belief that if we can devote the necessary time and effort to the process over the upcoming 18-month time period, our ability to adequately and appropriately develop measures in compliance with the legislation will be greatly enhanced.  It may also provide a window of opportunity should any legislation be passed permitting counties/towns/villages the ability to consolidate certain governmental functions or participate in pooled health care offerings.

Questions or concerns should be directed the Allegany County Administrator’s office at 585-268-9217 or via email at Boydett@alleganyco.com.

SP Clarence- Dentist arrested for multiple felonies

PRESS RELEASE 
On June 29, 2017, The Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) arrested Gregg J. Riess, 27 of Bronx, NY for Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance, 1 Count (C felony) and Possession of Sexual Performance by a Child, 3 Counts (E Felony). 
In September 2015, the National Center for Missing an Exploited Children received a Cyber tip and during the course of that investigation State Police was contacted in March of 2016.  The Cyber tip was related to a suspect posing as a female to solicit a male 13-year-old victim from Texas to perform sexual acts on camera and send sexual content to the suspect using the screen name of, “Shanaosexy” or “Shanaoxexxyy”. 
The BCI executed a search warrant in April 2016 on a residence on Capen Blvd in the Town of Amherst, NY.  Riess was attending the University at Buffalo for Dentistry during this course of the investigation.  
Riess was arrested and processed at SP Clarence and arraigned in the Town of Amherst.  Riess is currently a Dentist in Bronx, NY.  
The NYSP have reason to believe there are other victims.
If you have any information, contact the NYSP at 585-344-6200.
Reference SJS # 6824479

Walgreens to buy Rite Aid stores in Wellsville and Cuba

Walgreens announced this week that it had scrapped its takeover bid of competitor Rite Aid after federal regulators expressed concerned. However, it did reach a deal to purchase nearly half of all Rite Aid stores. A Rite Aid source with direct knowledge told WRN today that management teams were told Thursday that Walgreens had planned to purchase stores in Wellsville and Cuba. Rite Aid in Olean will remain Rite Aid. The source could not confirm when the change would take place. In Wellsville, Rite Aid operates on Bolivar Road and Walgreens has a store on Main Street. The purchase will put two Walgreens in Wellsville. Walgreens has agreed to purchase 2,186 Rite Aid stores. The deal still must be approved by the feds.

First Responders day at Houghton - Rapid Game

Sunday, July 2nd, 2:00 p.m.

-Kerr Pegula Athletic Complex, Houghton (off of Chamberlain Street)

-Free admission for First Responders and their Families

-Reduced prices on food 

-a gift of appreciation from the Rapids

-Mercyflight will be there as well

 

Friendship claims District 2 crown - Daily Reporter

FRIENDSHIP — A sea of pink flooded the outside of the fence and the Little League Field in Friendship on Wednesday, when the undefeated hosts took on Ellicottville-Little Valley with a District 2 crown on the line.

ECLV hung tough with unbeaten Friendship, but Friendship wasn’t going to be denied, riding the wave of fan support all the way to a title.

Picking up the 1-0 lead in the early going, the hosts capitalized on a crucial three-run fifth inning that proved to be enough to hold off a late ECLV rally, en route to a thrilling 4-3 victory to capture the District 2 banner. Read more on this story from the Daily Reporter.

Obituary: Elaine S. Polen, 87, Genesee, PA

Elaine S. Polen, 87, of Genesee, PA, died Wednesday, June 28, 2017 in her home.  Born March 31, 1930, in Trenton, NJ, she was the daughter of Michael John and Myrtle Vickers Schwab.  A registered nurse, she earned Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing and Nursing Education in Psychology from Georgetown University.  Elaine was a member of the Georgetown Alumni Association.  Surviving are:  a son, John T. (Pam) Polen of Harrison Valley, PA;  a daughter, Linda Ann (Richard) Hahn of Hamilton, NJ;  three grandsons, Karl Kunz, Justin Kunz, and John T. Polen;  and one great-grandson, Justin D. Kunz.  There will be no visitation or service.  Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army.  Arrangements are entrusted to the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfuneralhome.com.

Hauryski urges state Senate to pass sales tax authority; save Steuben property owners sharp tax hike

BATH -- Steuben County Legislature Chairman Joe Hauryski, R-Campbell, today urged the New York State Senate to immediately enact legislation protecting county sales tax authority and prevent double-digit hikes in property taxes in 2018. In a prepared statement Hauryski said: "As the New York State Legislature is currently in Albany for a special session to address outstanding issues, it is imperative that an agreement is reached to reauthorize county sales tax authority and that all related bills are adopted before this session concludes. "The Assembly has passed an omnibus bill which includes the extension of sales tax authority, for which we are grateful. We urge the Senate to follow suit and enact legislation that protects sales tax."

The 1 percent sales tax authority presently being held from passage is one of the most vital sources of revenue for Steuben County and its partner municipalities, according to Hauryski. "Should this authority be allowed to lapse by the state Senate, property taxes in Steuben County would increase approximately 23 percent in 2018," Hauryski said. "Since Steuben also shares its sales tax with cities, towns, and villages, failure to pass the reauthorization would likely force property tax increases in the municipalities as well. "If legislators leave Albany without addressing this issue, it would simply be an abdication of responsibility that would harm municipalities and taxpayers. "Steuben and counties throughout New York are in the midst of budget development for 2018, and uncertainty surrounding this revenue stream is highly problematic. Steuben implores the State Legislature to pass the sales tax extension immediately." Steuben officials also urged county residents to contact their state representatives immediately and urge the passage of sales tax reauthorization bill now:

* Gov. Andrew Cuomo: http://www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form

* Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan: https://www.nysenate.gov/senators/john-j-flanagan/contact

* Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie: http://nyassembly.gov/mem/Carl-E-Heastie

 

3rd Annual Allegany County Trap Neuter Return Yardsale

3rd annual Allegany County TNR yard sale fundraiser. All money from the sale goes directly to spay/neuter feral cats in Allegany County. Items are not priced. Make a reasonable offer. No clothing. Look for the big white tent. Something for everyone! We will also be selling tickets for a chance to win a professional painting of your pet! 4993 State Route 19 S, Belmont, NY 14813 June 30th- July 1st  9AM till 5PM   Just outside of Belmont towards Scio.

Woman charged with torching North Dansville home

NORTH DANSVILLE: Livingston County Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty and Livingston County Fire Coordinator Neidermaier reports the arrest of a Dansville woman after an investigation into a fire at her residence.

On Sunday June 18, 2017 at 5:55 p.m., the Livingston County Emergency Communications Center (E-911) began receiving calls for a structure fire at 22 Greenmount Court in the Town of North Dansville. Fire and EMS Departments from Dansville and Sparta responded where they found a fully engulfed house fire. Members from the Sheriff's Office and Fire Coordinator's Office responded to the scene for investigation into the cause of the fire.

The Fire Departments were able to extinguish the blaze but the house is believed to be a total loss, however nobody was injured. The preliminary investigation by the Sheriff's Office and Fire Coordinator's Office led to the conclusion that the fire was intentionally set and both Offices continued to jointly investigate the fire as an arson over the next several days.

On June 26, 2017 the Sheriff's Office charged the resident, 66-year-old Marjorie A. Hazlett, with felony Arson in the Third Degree. Hazlett was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing and pre-arraignment detention.   The District Attorney's office recommended bail be set $3,500 cash or $7,000 bond. Hazlett was later arraigned in the Town of North Dansville Court before Justice Weidman.  The Judge remanded Hazlett to the custody of the Sheriff on $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond.

The investigation is continuing by the Sheriff's Office and Fire Coordinator's Office.

Handling the incident for the Sheriff's Office was Sheriff’s Investigator Josh Monster, Sheriff’s Investigator Dan Rittenhouse, Sheriff’s Sergeant Ryan Swanson, Deputy Michael Wade, Deputy Jerry Pilkenton, Deputy Connor Sanford, and from the Sheriff’s Office Forensic Identification Unit Deputy Mike Williams and Deputy Bryan Mann.

Handling for the Fire Coordinator's Office was Coordinator Kevin Neidermaier, Assistant Coordinator Tom McGory and Assistant Coordinator Tom Pearson.

PA man pleads guilty & is sentenced for poisoning/killing bald eagles & hawks

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy announced today that William Wentling, 68, of Rothville, PA, pleaded guilty to violation of the Bald and Gold Eagle Protection Act before U.S. District Judge Jonathan W. Feldman. The defendant was then sentenced to two years’ probation and fined $3,500. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Gestring, who handled the case, stated that in March 2015, the New York State Department of Conservation received a report of a dead bald eagle in a field on Thompson Road in Addison, NY. The defendant operated a sheep farm in Addison, adjacent to where the carcass was discovered.

Subsequent investigation determined that in May 2014, Wentling mailed a container of Furadan, a restricted-use pesticide known to be highly toxic to wildlife, from his home in Pennsylvania to his farm in Addison. In March of 2015, the defendant directed his employees to pour Furadan over sheep carcasses on his farm for the purpose of controlling predators, specifically, birds of prey. As a result, two bald eagles, two red-tailed hawks, and a rough-legged hawk died after ingesting Furadan-laced sheep. One of the birds was an adult female bald eagle, which was incubating eggs in a nearby nest at the time of its death. At no time did Wentling have permits to take any of these birds, alive or dead.

“As a bird, the bald eagle is emblematic of our great Nation,” said Acting U.S.  Kennedy. “With this prosecution, we reaffirm two of the very attributes which lie at the core of our Nation’s greatness — our commitment to upholding the rule of law and our commitment to protecting of the most vulnerable among us.”

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, protects wildlife through the enforcement of federal conservation laws,” said Honora Gordon, Special Agent-in-Charge for the Northeast Region. "The intentional placement of poison on bait carcasses not only poses a threat to protected wildlife such as eagles and hawks, but also to other animals and to people. We take these situations very seriously and investigate these crimes to the fullest extent possible. The result of this case demonstrates our commitment to investigating wildlife crimes together with our partners such as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Law Enforcement.”

“From Staten Island to Lake Champlain to Western New York, bald eagles are thriving in our state thanks to decades of restoration efforts,” Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said. “I applaud the work of our Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs), the United States Attorney's Office, Western District of New York, and Special Agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for closing this case with a successful sentence. This will serve as a reminder that New York must remain diligent in our efforts to restore this iconic bird and uphold the conservation laws that protect it.”

In the early 1900’s, New York State was home to more than 70 nesting pairs of bald eagles, and was a wintering ground for several hundred more. However, by 1960, New York State had only one known active bald eagle nest remaining. Beginning in 1976, and continuing until 1988, the NYS-DEC Bald Eagle Program collected 198 nesting bald eagles from other parts of the United States, brought them to New York State, and then hand-reared them to independence. Today, there are more than 300 nesting pairs of bald eagles in the state.

The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Special Agents of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Honora Gordon and Environmental Conservation Officers with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, under the direction of Captain John Burke.

NY State Police Blotter

6/29/17 1:20am- During a traffic stop on State Route 19 in the Town of Wellsville, State Police arrested Kristopher R. Shea, 35, of Wellsville. He was charged with driving while ability impaired by alcohol. He was processed and released on a court ticket.

Hornell opens new trail

Hornell Mayor Shawn Hogan is proud to announce the opening of the hiking/biking trail at Fucci Memorial Park at Shawmut. The new hiking, biking and walking trail is fully handicapped accessible and extends 1.8 miles, from Shawmut Park to Webb’s Crossing. “The Shawmut Trail is a wonderful addition to our City Parks and I encourage all bikers, hikers and walkers to take advantage of another opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this area and the great outdoors,” Hogan said.

Hornell radio station manager running for mayor

Courtesy of WLEA Radio
HORNELL, NY – This morning on the 1480 Club, John Lewis announced that he’ll be leaving the show, because he’s running for Mayor of Hornell (he will continue working as station manager at Wlea and Fun 92.1).
Lewis will be running as an Independent. “So today, I’m thrilled to announce my candidacy for mayor, of the beautiful City of Hornell,” Lewis said. “I’ve never been political here on the 1480 Club, and when I filled in even on the Newsmaker Show. Where do I fall in the political spectrum? I would say right in the middle. I enjoy hearing from both Republicans, Democrats, Libertarians, Green Partiers, and those who have even had enough with politics. We can find common ground, compromise and solutions to problems, but only if we all work together. Again, I’m not a politician, but I’d be just as invested in working with Assemblyman Errigo, as I would with Governor Cuomo.”

Police dispatcher arrested

On June 28, 2017 the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) arrested Lorraine G. Sloane, 55 of Olean, NY for Falsifying Business Records 2nd (A Misdemeanor). Investigators said that while Sloane was an Olean Police Department Dispatcher, she allegedly and intentionally made a false entry in the Olean Police Department prisoner log. Sloane was processed at SP Olean and issued an appearance ticket returnable to the City of Olean Court in July 2017.

Obituary: Robert J. "Bob" Button, 91, Jasper

Robert J. "Bob" Button, 91, of Hunter Hill Rd. son of Ames and Jennie (Mullikin) Button, went to be with his wife and Lord Tuesday evening, June 27, 2017 at St. James Mercy Hospital in Hornell.

Bob was a lifelong resident of Jasper, where he went to school graduating from Jasper Central School in 1945. He and his wife of 63 years, the former Evelyn Edwards, ran the Button Family Dairy Farm on State Route 36 for many years where they also raised their six children.

After retiring from farming, he continued to stay busy being a school bus driver for the Hasper/Troupsburg school district for 12 years. Bob was a 77 year member of the South Canisteo Methodist Church, 55 year member of the former Jasper Grange, a 20 year member of the Steuben County Agricultural Stabilization Committee. He volunteered his time for "Meals on Wheels", was a Jasper Town Board member for 10 years, member of the Addison Milk Cooperative Board of Directors, and a former member of the Jasper Ambulance Corp. He was an honorary State & Chapter Farmer for Future Farmers of America and was a recipient of the Steuben County Sr. Citizen Award and the Jasper Citizen of the year award in 1994. Bob also enjoyed watching many of the Jasper/Troupsburg sporting events throughout the academic year.

Bob is survived by two daughters: Nancy (James) Butler of Loudon, TN and Susan Cornell of Rochester, four sons: Robert (Valerie) Button of Jasper, Ronald (Cynthia) Button of Troupsburg, Jack (Colleen) Button of Troupsburg and James Button of Jasper. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 2 great, great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by three brothers, Charles, Gerald and Dale Button and two sisters, Carrie Spaulding and Alta Brabant.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Friday at the H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home, 29 East Main Street in Canisteo, where a funeral service will take place Saturday at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Trevor Price officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Canisteo.

The family would like to acknowledge their appreciation to the staff at the St. James Mercy Hospital Comfort Care Unit for the wonderful care and compassion given to Bob in his last days.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the South Canisteo Methodist Church, c/o June Button, 3571 Ste. Rte. 36, Jasper, NY 14855.

Obituary: Dennis L. Mullen, 63, formerly of Rexville

Dennis L. Mullen, 63, of Canisteo Ave. formerly of Rexville, passed away unexpectedly Monday, June 26, 2017 at St. James Mercy Hospital in Hornell after being stricken at home.

Dennis was born October 5, 1953 in Hornell to the late Bernard G. and Zelia E. (Hoyt) Mullen. On February 16, 1974 in Greenwood, he married the former Karen Smith who survives and resides in Hornell. In addition to his parents Dennis was predeceased by a granddaughter Lucy Reagh.

Dennis was a graduate of Canisteo Central School class of 1971. He was a realtor for Real Inc. of Hornell since 2003. Prior to being a realtor, he was employed at the former Phillips Lighting in Bath, and had also been a dairy farmer in the Rexville area. He was a past member of the Commercial Network of Realtors, a member of the National Association of Realtors, NYS Association of Realtors and a member of the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors. For several years Dennis was President of the Western Steuben/Allegany Association of Realtors.

Dennis very much loved his family. He enjoyed watching his grandkids play football and any other activities they were involved in. When he could he loved to play golf and if not, enjoyed watching golf on television. Dennis' great sense of humor, wit and infectious laugh, will always be a part of his family and friends.

In addition to his wife Karen of Hornell, Dennis is survived by two sons, Steven (Danielle) Mullen of Lewiston and Timothy (Stacie) Mullen of Rexville, a daughter, Melissa (Jim) Reagh of Des Moines, Iowa. Six wonderful grandchildren Bella, Winston, Abraham and Henry Mullen, and Jacob and Madalyn Mullen. Dennis is also survived by six brothers, Maurice "Mort" (Marsha) Mullen of Rexville, Bernard Mullen, Jr. of Hornell, Patrick (Diane) Mullen of Hartsville, Marc (Carol) Mullen of Greenwood, Barry Mullen of Hornell, Randy (Connie) Mullen of Canisteo, two sisters, Mary Hope (Ralph) Horton of Canisteo and Holly (Ernest) Lang of Hartsville, several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home, 29 East Main St. in Canisteo. A funeral service will take place Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Community of Christ Church, Main St. in Greenwood. Burial will be in Bennetts Creek Cemetery, town of Greenwood.

Memorial contributions in Dennis' name may be made to the Community of Christ Church, c/o Samantha Bassett, 2848 Ste. Rte. 248 Greenwood, NY 14839.

Watkins Glen International proudly presents Military Appreciation Day at Sahlen’s Six Hours

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. – In honor of those who currently serve our country, and those who have served in the past, Watkins Glen International is offering complimentary tickets to active duty military personnel and veterans of the United States Armed Forces for the Sunday, July 2 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen. 

“Watkins Glen International is proud to again pay tribute to those who serve and those who have served the United States of America,” said WGI President Michael Printup. “We are all very grateful to these men and women for their sacrifices that they make, and we’re honored to have them as our guests for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen.”
Guests who show their military ID at Gates 4A or Gate 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday will receive two complimentary Kaplan University tickets. Guests should enter the facility from Lots 3 and 5 to participate. 

The Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen is one of four stops on the Tequila Patron North American Endurance Cup circuit, a championship within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season.
Weekend and Sunday general admission tickets are available for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen, which includes nearly 24 hours of on-track action from five of America’s premier sportscar racing series over four days at Watkins Glen International. For information or to purchase your tickets, visit www.theglen.com or call 1-866-461-RACE.

Potter County: Focusing In On Shale Gas Issues, Economic Development

A Penn State Extension representative met with the Potter County Commissioners and their Community Development Director, Jennifer Rossman, for a far-reaching conversation focused on shale gas issues, economic development, community revitalization and related topics. The meeting with Jim Ladlee, assistant director for energy, entrepreneurship and economic/community development, was also an opportunity to express appreciation to long-time PSU Extension District Director Don Tanner, whose retirement takes effect this week. Ladlee has long been active in research and public education related to shale gas development in Pennsylvania. Although his responsibilities at Penn State Extension have expanded, he remains involved with the university’s Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research. Ladlee agreed to assist Potter County with the relaunch of its Natural Gas Resource Center in the coming weeks.

Much of the discussion centered on building on current efforts to engage community members in developing strategies for sustained revitalization; reaching out to younger adults to encourage their involvement; improving marketing and hospitality to support tourism; developing long-term community development plans with achievable goals and accountability, and improving communication. Both Ladlee and Tanner discussed PSU Extension’s restructuring, which will result in Potter County being part of a nine-county region that also includes Cameron, McKean, Elk, Clearfield, Jefferson, Clarion, Warren and Elk. Earlier this month, the commissioners met with Tony Siliano, has come aboard in the new position of business operations manager; and Melissa Sankey, the region’s new client relations manager. They also confirmed that Penn State does plan to hire a new water resources educator/assistant to succeed another recent retiree, Jim Clark, who was active with several Potter County organizations, including the Triple Divide Watershed Coalition, Water Quality Work Group and Natural Gas Resource Center.

Penn State Extension is housed at the Potter County Education Center on Water Street, sharing the offices there with the Potter County Education Council. While the majority of funding for Extension comes from the state, the Potter County Commissioners support the agency by providing the facility — complete with classrooms, a kitchen and videoconferencing technology — as well as an annual allotment.
Courtesy of Potter County Today

Steuben Real Property Auction slated for July 14

BATH – Some 125 properties are slated for the 2017 Steuben County Delinquent Real Property Tax Auction, set for 10 a.m. July 14 at the Campbell-Savona High School, 8455 County Road 125, Campbell, N.Y. The properties are now listed on the county website, http://www.steubencony.org, with the final listings to be determined July 11 by the county Legislature’s Finance Committee. For more information, visit the website or call (607) 664-2488.

Allegany County 911 Center monthly report

Allegany County Sheriff monthly report

Allegany County District Attorney monthly report

Obituary: Paul Thomas "Butch" Johnson, 79, Almond

ALMOND-Paul Thomas “Butch” Johnson, 79, passed away Tuesday evening (June 27, 2017) at his home on Karr Valley Road.  Born in Hornell on March 26, 1938, he was the youngest son of the late John and Helen (Kelleher) Johnson. He married his wife, Sandy, 27 years ago, and she resides in Almond.

 Paul and his brothers, Roger and Gene, served the first Mass ever celebrated at St. Brendan’s Church in Almond. He and his family grew up in the house that is now St. Brendan’s Rectory.

 A week after graduation from high school, Paul went to work as a fireman for the Erie Railroad on the Susquehanna Division. In 1959, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served 16 months in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to the United States and to working on the railroad; he also attended Alfred State College and Monroe Community College.

 Pursuing a career in Law Enforcement, he served from 1963-1965 as a Village Police Officer in North Hornell and in November of 1965 he received an appointment as a Trooper for the New York State Police, serving nearly 24 years before retiring at the rank of an Investigator in the Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI). From 1989 to 1994 he was a licensed private investigator and he also served as an Almond Town Justice for 10 years.

 Paul was a member of the Arthur H. Cunningham American Legion Post No. 440 in Hornell for more than 50 years, and a member of the Hornell Elks Lodge No. 364 for nearly 50 years. He was also a member of the Almond Lions Club for over 30 years, a member of the Hornell Association, a member of the N.Y. State Troopers, Chapter Baron Steuben, and a member of the famous “Muhleisen’s Coffee Crew” for over 50 years.

 He was the “Head Man” at the Hair Zoo in Hornell and loved to go on cruises with Sandy and sit on his deck drinking beer watching Mike Crandall mow the yard.

 Besides his wife, Sandy, he is also survived by a daughter, Angela Yanni, and grandchildren, Morgan Tobin, Cole Yanni, Ali Yanni; son, Joseph (Nichole) Day, and grandchildren, Garrett and Alivia; son (deceased), John Day (Elysia), and grandchildren, Julia Day and Brittney Weakland; sisters, Pat Reichert and niece, Jennifer of Connecticut, Arlita Barnes and nieces, Michelle and Jackie of California; his brother, Gene Johnson (Rita) of Rochester; brothers-in-law, Mark Larnard (Donna) and David Larnard (Chris).  He was predeceased by his two brothers, Leo and Roger Johnson.

The Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc. in Hornell is honored to serve the family of Paul Thomas “Butch” Johnson.

Calling hours are 5-8 p.m. Friday (June 30, 2017) at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St., Hornell. Relatives and friends are invited to meet his family at St. Brendan’s Church in Almond, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday (July 1, 2017) Committal prayers and interment, with full military honors, will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Almond. The New York State Police will provide an escort to the cemetery.

The United States flag and the Army flag will proudly fly at the Bishop & Johnson FuneralHome, Inc. in recognition of Paul’s military service.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to Homecare and Hospice, 1225 W. State St., Olean, N.Y. 14760-2135 (www.homeare-hospice.org). Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

Press Release: Stop Fracked Gas and Waste in NY!!! Webinar 6-29-17; DEC Comment period ends 7-5-17

Presenters:
Fred Sinclair, Concerned Citizens of Allegany County
Rachel Treichler, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter

Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar. com/register/ 7076973990467647234.

Join the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter to learn more New York state’s Department of Conservation (DEC) proposal to 6 NYCRR Part 380, which relates to the discharge and disposal of radioactive materials to the environment.
As exposure to radioactivity has increased, regulations to protect public health and the environment have not evolved to remain current with activities and practices which result in radioactive materials.  

For example, New York state’s natural gas infrastructure has been flooded with Marcellus and Utica Gas from black shale deposits that are radioactive. Radon levels in the hydrofracked gas are orders of magnitude higher than the traditional gas previously burned as it comes from shallower deposits.

Regulators seemed to have not recognized or acted upon the danger caused such radiation exposure. Radon is known to be the number two cause of lung cancer in the US. The gas from the drilling fields of Pennsylvania is carrying radon and its decay radionuclides of Polonium 210 and Lead 210 to stoves, furnaces, and pipelines, and out the stacks of compressor stations and dehydration facilities. Over time, these components of the infrastructure will become radioactive from buildup of scale.
This review of Part 380 regulations is an opportunity to voice our concerns and inform the DEC and the public about the importance of taking action.

>>> Join us for this webinar to increase your awareness about these issues and get information to submit your comments.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Obituary: Marvin Charles Pomeroy, 79, formerly of Rushford

Geneva --- Marvin Charles Pomeroy of Geneva and a former resident of Rushford died Tuesday, June 27, 2017 in his home under the care of hospice. He was born on September 7, 1937 in Rushford, a son of the late Marvin H and Myrtle Jones Pomeroy. On July 20, 1963 he married Connie Marie Randolph at Rushford United Methodist Church, who survives.

Marvin was the third of four children and spent his life working in New York. He lived in Rushford for 55 years until moving to Geneva in 1995.  He worked for Pomeroy Brothers Excavating for several years, was a farmer for 10 years, and Elam Sand and Gravel for 9 years until retiring.  He also spent 8 summers as an employee of the Town of Phelps doing roadside mowing.

Marvin and his wife Connie are members of Grace Baptist Church in Geneva.

Surviving in addition to his wife are their children, Charles S (Anita) Pomeroy, Dale K (Kristy) Pomeroy, and Lee C (Wendy) Pomeroy, 9 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, his brothers, Warren H Pomeroy, James K Pomeroy and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife Celia Black and his brother Sherwood K Pomeroy.

Family and friends may gather for a memorial service at Grace Baptist Church, 3142 Johnson Rd, Geneva, NY 14456 on Saturday, July 1 at 2:00 p.m. Calling Hours will be Monday, July 3, 2017 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N. Genesee Street, Fillmore with a funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in the White Cemetery, Rushford.

Memorials, if desired, to: Ontario-Yates Hospice and Palliative Care, 759 Pre-Emption Road, Geneva, NY 14456. http://www.hpcanys.org/find-care/ontario-yates-hospice-palliative-care/

Obituary: Herbert W. "Herb" Howe III, 43, Belfast

Belfast - Herbert W. “Herb” Howe III, age 43, passed away on Monday, June, 26, 2017, at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester as a result of injuries sustained in a logging accident. He was born in Buffalo to Herbert W. “Sonny” and Gladys Jean Young Howe II. On July 15, 2012 he married Tara Howard who survives him. Herb was a long time resident of the Belfast Area who had worked for Union Drilling which was bought out by Side Winder Drilling. He had always loved logging and later started his own company called “Second Time Around Logging”. Herb was a hardworking man who loved to spend one on one time with the kids. He had a deep voice with a booming laugh and was often the life of the party. Herb will be remembered as a man who had deep love for his family and especially for his wife Tara.

Survivors include his wife Tara, his mother Jean Snyder [Howe] of Belfast; 3 stepsons, Daniel [Nikkie] Green of Wellsville, Joshua Howard of Belfast, and Nathan Hunt of Belfast; 2 step daughters, Daphne Hunt of Wellsville, and Joslin Hunt of Belfast; 3 step grandchildren; David Jr., Jayden, and Ashlyn Green; 2 brothers, Lance [Valerie] Snyder of Lancaster, and David [Jaime] Snyder of Dade City, FL.; 2 sisters, Mrs. Pat [Connie Ann] Argentieri of Alden, and Diane Howe of Buffalo; his mother in law Glenna [Jack] Clark of Andover and their families; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Herb was predeceased by his father, Herbert and his sister, Rose Marie.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, July 1, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cross Town Alliance Church on Highland Avenue in Wellsville. The funeral service will take place following the calling hours at 2 p.m. in the church. Burial will follow in the Knights Creek Cemetery and memorials in Herb’s name may be made to the SPCA serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Witch Hazel at Wellsville Elks Lodge

Witch Hazel will play at the Wellsville Elks Lodge, Saturday, July 8^th from 9 – 1. There will be a $5.00 cover and you must be 21 to enter.

 

I'm Fake News?

So here's the deal...I've been doing news for 36 years, long before the internet developed. This morning, for the first time ever, I had a reader message me to tell me I was "fake news." The reader was miffed over a Tom Reed headline I posted. The body of the story was not questioned, just the headline. As the commenter said, in general terms, people often just read the headline and not the story. If you just read a headline and not the story, like...it's on me? The issue was with the headline, not the nuts and bolts, hence, I was called "Fake News." If people just glance at a headline and nothing more, what can I do? I'm not a commercial site. I don't get coin for clicks. I do this as a passion to inform people. I sit in the weekly Tom Reed weekly media call and others.
So I examined the headline. Yup, some could misinterpret the effort, so I changed it.
Bottom line. I was born in Wellsville. I live in Wellsville. I've devoted my life to this place. If you don't like the site, move on...don't read. To call me "fake news" after 3+ decades of sincere effort...Then I say, start your own blog.

Andover 4th of July UPDATED schedule

Steuben County man gets 15 years in prison for sexually abusing 5 year old

Obituary: Lefa L. Hennigh, 94, formerly of Shinglehouse

Lefa L. Hennigh  “Former Shinglehouse, PA Resident” 

PALMYRA, PA---Lefa L. Hennigh, 94, of Palmyra, formerly of Shinglehouse, passed away with her daughter by her side on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 in Spang Crest Nursing Home, Lebanon.

Born January 7, 1923 in Spring Mills, she was a daughter of Samuel H. and Gladys D. Leister Bitner.  On March 18, 1944 in Mazeppa, she married Spurgeon W. Hennigh, who passed away on May 21, 2005.

Lefa was a graduate of Centre Hall Potter High School, Class of 1940, in Centre Hall.  During World War II, Lefa was employed by Sylvania in Mill Hall and later worked at Titan Metal in Bellefonte.  After moving to Shinglehouse, Mrs. Hennigh owned and operated Lefa’s Shoppe, a ladies clothing store, from 1962 to 1968. She, along with her husband, owned and operated Hennigh’s Trailer Sales until 2004.

Lefa was a member of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church and was a member of the Mary Martha’s group of the church, serving as secretary of the group for many years.  She was a 50 year plus life member and a past matron of Eureka Chapter #52 Order of the Eastern Star in Shinglehouse, also having served as treasurer for 21 years. She was also a member of the former Monitor Roamers Trailer Club in Shinglehouse and was a charter member of the former Oswayo Valley Lion’s Club in Shinglehouse.

Surviving are a daughter, Yvonne A. (Greg) Bump of Annville; a son, Gary L. (Debbie) Hennigh of Wasilla, Alaska; two granddaughters, Babette A. “Babs” (Jack) Rudick of Middletown and Crysta (Charlie Camp) Svendsen-Camp of Anchorage, Alaska; and two great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn M. Kellogg of Middletown and Ezekiel “Zeke” Camp of Anchorage, Alaska. 

Mrs. Hennigh was predeceased by her parents and her husband. 

Burial will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse. A memorial service will be held on a date and place to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, PO Box 296, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; to the Oswayo Valley Memorial Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Mrs. Hennigh’s family has entrusted her care to the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences or share a fond memory of Lefa, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.

ELMIRA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO THREATENING WITNESS

ROCHESTER, N.Y.- Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Isaiah L. McLaurin, 27, of Elmira, NY, pleaded guilty to witness tampering before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey, who is handling the case, stated that on May 17, 2017, the defendant made threats against an individual that he believed was cooperating in a drug investigation in the Elmira area. McLaurin intended to prevent that person from testifying and providing information to law enforcement authorities about the drug trafficking organization.

On May 16, 2017, four individuals—Robert Ian Thatcher, Maximillian Sams, Dwayne Banks, and Carlito Rios, Jr.—were arrested and charged in a federal criminal complaint with various drug trafficking and firearms offenses including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, quantities of furanyl fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, and U-47700, a Schedule I controlled substance.

On May 16, 2017, an article about the arrests and investigation was published on the website for the Star Gazette, the local newspaper in Elmira. The article was entitled “Four face federal charges in Elmira drug investigation.”  A digital copy of the complaint and supporting affidavit were also published on the Star Gazette’s website with the article. In the supporting affidavit, certain confidential sources were referenced by anonymous designations (including “CC-1” and “CS-2”).

The following day, May 17, 2017, a member of law enforcement observed a series of public Facebook comments related to the investigation described in the article on a Facebook page bearing the user name “Isaiah Mclaurin” and a profile picture of Isaiah L. McLaurin.  One post stated:

Isaiah Mclaurin

Facts somebody better have this N**** in protective custody cause if he thinks he can just pick his daughter up from school and everything’s gonna be ok.  He got it coming

In these Facebook posts, McLaurin publicly identified the individual – referred to as Individual A – that he believed is one of the confidential sources referenced in the complaint against Thatcher, Sams, Banks, and Rios, and threatened both Individual A and Individual A’s child.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James J. Hunt, New York Field Division; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Richard Allen; the Elmira Police Department, under the direction of Chief Joseph Kane; Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James C. Spero; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict, New York Field Division; and the Pennsylvania State Police, under the direction of Commissioner Colonel Tyree C. Blocker.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 28, 2017, at 3:00 p.m. before Chief Judge Geraci.

Zippo/Case Museum celebrates 20th anniversary July 15

Bradford, PA – The Zippo/Case Museum, the most visited museum in Northern Pennsylvania, will celebrate its 20th anniversary from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 15 with a family-friendly celebration on the museum grounds.

“For twenty years, the Zippo/Case Museum has been a destination for many visitors to our region, as we have built an interactive and state of the art facility that reflects the heritage of both great American brands,” said Mark Paup, President and CEO of Zippo Manufacturing Company and W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company.  “We are excited to recognize the growth of Zippo Manufacturing Company and W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company, while we celebrate their successes and most importantly the 85th anniversary of Zippo Manufacturing Company.”

The Zippo/Case Museum 20th Anniversary Celebration will feature activities and excitement for both collectors and community members.  Throughout the day, attendees can take a tour of the museum led by Zippo Historian Shirley Evers and Case Historian Katie Shonts-Saar. After the tour, they can have their Case knives polished and sharpened, get a sneak peek at future product releases, and participate in games, contests, and giveaways. The famous Zippo Car will be on display during the event. Case representatives will be hosting knife safety classes. Admission is free. 

For collectors, special 20th Anniversary commemoratives and souvenirs will be available for purchase at the Zippo/Case Museum store, including a limited edition 20th Anniversary Armor™ Zippo lighter, and a limited edition 20th Anniversary Case knife and Zippo lighter set. A commemorative Zippo lighter and Case knife are also available now at the museum store and on Zippo.com.

“We are very excited to be featuring these commemoratives in-store at the museum during the celebration alongside new Zippo and Case products – including Zippo eyewear, fire starters and other exclusive museum collectibles,” said Kyle Kleiderlein, Zippo/Case Museum manager.

During the event, the Kids and Cancer Benefit Run organization will host a silent auction featuring rare and historical Zippo and Case products.  For more information about the organization, visit KidsAndCancerBenefitRun.com.

Food vendors will be onsite with offerings such as pulled pork sandwiches, Italian sausage, nachos, hot dogs, hamburgers, local creamery ice cream, and more.

The first museum, the Zippo Family Store and Museum, opened in late 1993. Aptly named, as it featured products for sale from the Zippo family of companies at the time: Zippo, W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company and Holgate Toys.

The original museum was quite small and quickly proved inadequate to satisfy the passion of collectors and curiosity of tourists who made the trip to Bradford. In 1995, plans for a brand new and greatly expanded store and museum were initiated. The grand opening of the Zippo/Case Visitors Center took place on July 18, 1997, coinciding with the company’s 65th anniversary celebration.  It was the centerpiece of the 1997 Zippo/Case International Swap Meet. More than 8,000 people from around the globe attended the three-day event, inaugurating a flow of international visitors that continues today.

The Zippo/Case Museum now hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually. Collectors and tourists travel from all around the United States and many other countries including Japan, Korea, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil to revel in their love of these two iconic American brands.

Caption: Sarah Dorn, daughter of Zippo inventor and founder, George G. Blaisdell, speaks at the grand opening of the Zippo/Case Visitors Center on July 18, 1997.  Current Owner and Chairmain of the Board, George Duke (far right), proudly looks on as his mother, Dorn, speaks.

Caption: The Zippo/Case Museum will host its 20th anniversary celebration on July 15. Admission to the event is free, and will feature demonstrations, hands-on activities, and a silent auction to benefit the Kids and Cancer Benefit Run.

Caption:  Special anniversary Zippo lighters and Case knives will be available for purchase at the Zippo/Case Museum store.  A limited edition 20th Anniversary Armor™ Zippo lighter, Case knife, and set will be available at the event beginning at 9 a.m.  A commemorative Zippo lighter and Case knife are also available now at the museum store and on Zippo.com.

ABOUT ZIPPO MANUFACTURING COMPANY

One of the most recognized brands in the world, Zippo was founded in the fall of 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania, where it has manufactured more than 550 million windproof lighters. With the exception of improvements to the flint wheel and modifications in case finishes, the product remains unchanged and is backed by the company’s famous lifetime guarantee – "It works, or we fix it free.™" Zippo’s diverse product line includes lighters and accessories; butane candle lighters; eyewear, fragrance, and a robust line of heat and flame products for outdoor enthusiasts.  Zippo markets in nearly 200 countries and also owns the Ronson brand of lighters and fuel and W.R. Case and Sons Cutlery Company, both based in Bradford, Pennsylvania.  For more information, visit www.Zippo.com or follow Zippo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat (@OriginalZippo).