Senator Young to Honor New York Army National Guard Specialist Esteban Torres Jr.,

ATTENTION PRINT/RADIO/TV NEWS DIRECTORS
WHO: Senator Catharine M. Young
 
WHAT: Medal Presentation Ceremony to Honor Specialist Esteban Torres, Jr.

WHERE: Senator Catharine M. Young’s District Office, 700 W. State Street, Westgate Plaza, Olean, NY 14760

WHEN: Saturday, September 30, 2017; 3:00 P.M.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Senator Catharine M. Young (R,C,I- Olean) will honor Specialist Esteban Torres, Jr. by recognizing his outstanding service as a member of the New York Army National Guard on Saturday, September 30 at 3 p.m. The medal ceremony will take place at Senator Young’s District Office, 700 W. State Street, Olean, NY.
Specialist Torres will be presented with the following medals from the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs:
·        The New York State Military Commendation Medal ·        The New York Long and Faithful Service Medal ·        The U.S. Army Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar

A native of Buffalo, New York, Esteban Torres enlisted in the New York Army National Guard in March 1976. Assigned to Company A, First Battalion, 107^th Infantry Regiment, 42^nd Infantry Division, then-Private Torres was ordered to state active duty by Governor Hugh Carey in April 1979 and deployed to Sing Sing Correctional Facility in Ossining, NY when New York State Corrections Officers went on strike. As a squad leader in charge of 12 men, Private Torres patrolled the prison’s south wing for four weeks, maintaining security over 50 maximum-security inmates. He was honorably discharged as a specialist fourth class on March 30, 1982, completing six years and three months of service. He currently resides in Caneadea, New York. 

Wellsville woman arrested after incident on SR 244

A few hours before sunrise today, State Police were called to patrol State Route 244 between Alfred and Belmont for an alleged impaired driver. According to the scanner, the person calling 911 was following the vehicle. There was scanner chatter back and forth, but according to the State Police blotter, and arrest was eventually made at 5:58 a.m. today at 4354 SR 244 in Amity.
According to the publicly available information from Troopers, Shawna M. Foster, 32, of Wellsville was arrested and charged with DWI-1st offense, refusal to submit to a breath test and resisting arrest. The blotter says Foster was detained on cash bail, but the Allegany County Jail says she is not there. Further court action is pending.

City of Olean wins $10 million grant

State to Collaborate with Western New York Regional Economic Development Council to Revitalize the City of Olean's Downtown

 

Part of Governor's Comprehensive Approach to Transform Communities into Vibrant Neighborhoods and Boost Local Economies

WYSIWYG

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Friday announced that the City of Olean will receive $10 million in funding as the Western New York winner of the second round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. As in the first round of the DRI, one municipality from each of the state's 10 regional economic development regions will be selected as a $10 million winner, marking another overall state goal to target $100 million in funding and investments to help communities identify catalytic downtown projects to boost the local economy. 

"New York is investing in municipalities poised for advancement and growth, and with this $10 million commitment to develop the City of Olean's downtown, the community will have the resources it needs to attract new businesses, improve outdoor recreation, and foster the creation of new jobs," Governor Cuomo said. "This investment will add more momentum to Western New York's resurgence, while laying the groundwork for a stronger, more viable region for decades to come."

"The Governor understands that a thriving downtown can be an economic catalyst for an entire region," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "This well-deserved Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, which is one of the largest grants Olean has ever received, will help it build on its role as an economic, educational and recreational hub, accelerating the renewal of walkable spaces in downtown and the growth of a diverse population of additional residents."

The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council went through a competitive review process of proposals from communities throughout the region and considered all eight criteria below before recommending Olean as its nominee for winner:

• The downtown should be compact, with well-defined boundaries;The municipality, or the downtown's catchment area, should be of sufficient size to support a vibrant, year-round downtown;
• The downtown is able to capitalize on prior or catalyze future private and public investment in the neighborhood and its surrounding areas;
• There should be recent or impending job growth within, or in close proximity to the downtown that can attract workers to the downtown, support redevelopment and make growth sustainable;
• The downtown must be an attractive and livable community for diverse populations of all ages, including existing residents, millennials and skilled workers;
• The municipality should already embrace or have the ability to create and implement policies that increase livability and quality of life, including the use of local land banks, modern zoning codes and parking standards, complete streets plans, energy efficient projects, green jobs, and transit-oriented development;
• The municipality should have conducted an open and robust community engagement process resulting in a vision for downtown revitalization and a preliminary list of projects and initiatives that may be included in a DRI strategic investment plan; and
• The municipality has identified transformative projects that will be ready for implementation with an infusion of DRI funds within the first one to two years. 

Olean's second round DRI win entitles it to receive $10 million in state funding and investments to revitalize its downtown neighborhoods and generate new opportunities for long-term growth. Olean now joins the City of Jamestown, which was the Western New York region's winner in the first DRI round.

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, "The successful DRI program is helping communities by creating new opportunities for business growth, resulting in more vibrant downtowns across New York. Olean's DRI projects will build on the momentum the city started with its 'Walkable Olean ' plan. I congratulate Western New York on another DRI award and look forward to seeing Olean's contributions to the overall "Strategy for Prosperity" which is successfully transforming the region's economy."

New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said, "Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding will help invigorate Olean's downtown, offering opportunities for job creation and economic growth, while also making the area more livable to keep existing residents and attract new ones. The Department of State will continue to work closely with municipalities across New York State to help develop communities, including those in their downtowns."

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "Governor Cuomo's Downtown Revitalization Initiative helps breathe new life and bring new opportunities into cities like Olean, putting them on a path to prosperity. This $10 million investment in Olean is part of a strategic goal to harness the amazing assets of downtowns across the state - increasing access to housing, creating jobs and attracting cultural and recreational opportunities, and enriching and improving quality of life in the entire region."

Senator Catharine M. Young said, "Downtowns are the hearts and souls of our communities. With this investment, Olean will be able to revitalize downtown into a thriving, attractive destination for people in our region and beyond, ensuring its success and its future. Additionally, the increased jobs and economic activity resulting from the project will translate into a broader tax base which will benefit all Olean residents. We are working together on the state level to make good things happen here in Western New York. I thank Governor Cuomo and Lieutenant Governor Hochul for their commitment to our region."

Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio said, "As the Assemblyman for this area, I have been advocating for the development of economic opportunities for many years. I am pleased to learn of the City of Olean's success in the competition for Revitalization funding, and I am hopeful that this continued investment in downtown Olean will attract private sector investors and result in additional jobs for my constituents. I have strongly supported the city in its efforts to enhance our community, and I congratulate everyone involved in this endeavor."

Western New York REDC Co-Chair Jeff Belt said, "Governor Cuomo demonstrated confidence in Olean and Olean delivered. Olean's priority projects through the REDC were key to kicking off the City's transformation. This DRI award will be the rocket fuel for our renaissance."

Olean

Olean's historic downtown is walkable and bikeable, bounded by Olean Creek and the Allegheny River. The area includes the Central Business District with several landmark buildings, adjoining residential districts, and recreational assets including Bradner Stadium and a recreation center. The area also includes the Olean General Hospital, Jamestown Community College, and a newly opened Olean Business Development Center which provides services to entrepreneurs. The city will build on these assets to create a vibrant and active 24-hour downtown that supports a growing and diverse population of residents who are optimistic about opportunity to work, learn, and thrive in Olean. 

Olean will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize its downtown with up to $300,000 in planning funds from the $10 million DRI grant. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders, and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan for downtown Olean will examine local assets and opportunities and identify economic development, transportation, housing, and community projects that align with the community's vision for downtown revitalization and that are poised for implementation. The downtown Olean Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI grant funds in revitalization projects that will advance the community's vision for its downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state's $10 million investment. Plans for DRI's second round will be complete in early 2018.  

For more information on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, go to: www.ny.gov/programs/downtown-revitalization-initiative.

Obituary: Herbert L. Hanes, 88, Sunderlineville, PA

Herbert L. Hanes, 88, of Sunderlinville, PA, died Thursday, September 28, 2017 in his home.  Born June 5, 1929, in Pike Township, PA, he was the son of Leon C. and Vera Morgan Hanes.  On June 5, 1951, in Sunderlinville, he married the former Naomi Johnson, who survives.  He was employed by the Elkland Leather Company, Eberle Tanning Co. in Westfield, and retired from Patterson Lumber in Galeton.  Surviving besides his wife, Naomi, are:  six children, Rosemary (C. Earl) Kinter of Middlebury Center, PA, Wilma (Larry) Riley of Elmira, NY, Betty (Bob) Schurer of Oval, PA, Stuart Hanes of Scottsville, VA, Sandra (Sam) Fay of Lawrenceville, PA, and Ronald (Deborah) Hanes of Tioga, PA;  15 grandchildren;  12 great-grandchildren;  three brothers, Harry (Lucy) Hanes of Lawrenceville, PA, Robert Hanes of New Smyrna, FL, and Joseph (Judy) Hanes of Mills, PA;  a sister, Harriett (Frank) Arreola of Magna, UT;  nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his step-father, Ross Young;  a son, Michael Herbert Hanes;  a grandson, Nathan Hanes;  and a brother, William Hanes.  Friends may call Wednesday, October 4, 2017 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Thursday at 11:00 a.m.  The Rev. Dorothy Densmore will officiate.  Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, Potter Brook, PA.  Memorials may be made to Susquehanna Hospice, 24 Walnut St., Wellsboro, PA 16901.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Edna Mae Gigee, 99, Wellsville

Edna Mae GIGEE, 99, of Bolivar Road, Wellsville, NY, died Wednesday, September 27, 2017 in Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Wellsville, NY.  Born January 24, 1918, in Friendship, NY, she was the daughter of Eugene Talbert and Veronica Mae Hall Bidwell.  On May 4, 1940, in Belmont, NY, she married Wayne Francis Gigee, who predeceased her in 1994.  A graduate of Friendship High School, she was employed by Moore Turbine during World War II as a lathe operator.  She and her husband operated a dairy farm on Fords Brook in the 1940’s and 1950’s and later owned and operated Gigee’s Store on Bolivar Road for 24 years.  She was a dedicated volunteer at Jones Memorial Hospital for more than 20 years and delivered Meals on Wheels after her retirement.  She was a member of the Scio Senior Citizens and the Richburg Senior Citizens Club.  Surviving are:  two daughters, Phyllis Jean (Lewis) Brandes of Campbell, NY and Mary Ann (Frederick) Muhleisen of Arkport, NY;  seven grandchildren;  19 great-grandchildren;  a brother, Wayne Bidwell of Belmont, NY;  and 13 nieces and nephews.  In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by four brothers, Clifford, Merritt, Lyle, and Joseph;  a sister, Opal;  and six nieces and nephews.  Friends may call at Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY on Tuesday, October 3, 2017 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., with Funeral Services following at 3:00 p.m.  The Rev. Richard C. Hurd, Pastor of the Allentown United Methodist Church, will officiate.  Burial will be in Forest Hills Cemetery, Belmont, NY.  Following the services, friends are invited to join the family at the Allentown United Methodist Church for a time of sharing memories and refreshments.  Memorials may be made to the Allentown United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Judy Margaret Hull Virkus, 73, Wellsville

On September 26, 2017, Judy Margaret Hull Virkus was called home to be with her heavenly father.
Judy was born November 30, 1943 in Buffalo to the late Russell and Betty Scott Hull.  She graduated from West Seneca and attended Buffalo State for Art.
She married the love of her life Harley C. “Tim” Virkus on August 18, 1962.  They had a wonderful 52 years together until his death in 2014.
Judy was a 48-year resident of Wellsville and in that time, she belonged to many organizations.  She was President of the Lioness Club and Business and Professional Women and was a large part of Freeborn, Music Boosters, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Little League and Secretary of YFC.
For the past 25 years, she had worked at the Alfred State Wellsville Campus Bookstore, where she was lovingly called “the Blue Shirt Lady.”  She was known to purchase books and uniforms for students needing funds and guiding those who needed a loving ear.
Never a lady to sit and do nothing, Judy was interested in gardening, baking, cooking and traveling.  She taught tole painting and owned a craft business, Peanut Butter Farm.
She loved rain on a tin roof, white wine, Makers Mark, summer nights in the gazebo, time with friends and celebrating Thanksgiving when her entire family would come together around the table.
Out of everything that was held dear, Judy’s family came first.  Judy is survived by her brother, Scott (Cheryl) Hull;  her six children, Timothy (Laurie) Virkus, Jennifer (Dave) Bentley, Steven (Donna) Virkus, Maggie (Clyde) Langan, Josie Virkus, and Dr. Annie (Nelson Estrada) Virkus;  her grandchildren, Aaron, Alex, Andy, Aidan Virkus, and Jillian (Justin) Way;  Nathan, Adam Bentley and Molly (Adam) Kellogg;  Justin Virkus;  Mackenzie Covel and Rebekah Langan;  Isaiah and Xavier Scott;  four great-grandchildren, Riley and Bryannah Bentley;  Tobias Langan and Griffin Kellogg;  many nieces, nephews and many endless friends.
Judy was the mother and friend that rejoiced in your happiness and held you in your sorrow.  She loved Jesus with all her heart and because of that she was a true example of how to love others.
A celebration of Judy's life will be Saturday, October 7, 2017 beginning at 1:00 PM at Alfred State College Wellsville Campus Culinary Arts Building, 2530 River Road, Wellsville, NY 14895.  Wear your flip flops, casual clothes and bring your Judy stories to share.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory may be made to:  Roscoe Snell; checks made payable to: Pioneer Christian Fellowship, 303 Route 39 W, Arcade, NY 14009 or The National Tay-SACHS & Allied Diseases Association (NTSAD) @ the following:  NTSAD, in memory of Judy Virkus, 2001 Beacon St., Suite 204, Boston, MA 02135.  
Arrangements are entrusted to Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY.  
Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Olean: Police confiscate $15K in drugs, man arrested

The Olean Police Departments Street Crimes Unit executed a search warrant Friday at approximately 3:25 p.m. at 206 North 19th. St Olean and one person was arrested, according to Captain Robert Blovsky. 38-year-old Kevin A. Auman, who is the sole occupant of the residence, was charged with several crimes for allegedly possessing drugs and a stolen hand gun. Investigators seized over one pound of marijuana, over three ounces of cocaine, suboxone strips, several items of drug paraphernalia and cash. Investigators place the value of the drugs seized as having a street value of approximately $15,000.  Additional charges on Auman are possible in this case as well as other arrests. Listed below are the charges placed on Auman. Auman was transported to the Olean Police Station for booking procedures and is awaiting arraignment at this time. -Criminal possession of controlled substance 3rd. degree (B Felony)


-Criminal possession of a controlled substance 5th. degree ( D Felony
-Criminal possession of Marijuana 2nd. degree ( D Felony)
-Criminal possession of a weapon 4th degree ( A Misdemeanor)
-Criminal possession of stolen property 4th, a Felony

JCC, Alfred State Update Nursing Transfer Agreement

Jamestown Community College and Alfred State College have updated an articulation agreement for JCC graduates transferring into Alfred State’s nursing program.
The agreement guarantees junior standing to JCC students who graduate with a nursing degree as well as the opportunity to complete the bachelor’s degree at Alfred State in four online semesters. Prior to enrolling at Alfred State, JCC students must also complete three credits of sociology coursework and plan to become licensed as a registered nurse by the end of their first semester after matriculating at Alfred State.
Students can transfer up to 18 additional specified JCC credits beyond the 54 credits required for acceptance into the Alfred State degree program, leaving as few as 46 credits to be taken with Alfred State.

An overview of the agreement is available at www.sunyjcc.edu/transfer/agreements.

Obituary: Thomas D. Parmenter, 69, Fillmore

Fillmore---Thomas D. Parmenter of  11151 Rt. 19A died Sunday, September 3, 2017 in his home. He was born on July 12, 1948 in The Town of Hume, a son of the late Frederick and Wilma Cronk Parmenter. He married Mickalie D. Hodnett who predeceased him in 1982. He later married Kathlyn Leet who survives.  Tom was a graduate of Fillmore Central School, class of 1967 and Alfred State College where he majored in dairy management. After graduation he owned and operated his own dairy farm for 27 years. He was also the Co-operative Extension Dairy Management Educator for Allegany County for 18 years, retiring in March of 2017 due to ill health.He was director of the Young Farmers and Ranchers of Allegany County from 1978 thru 1980, member of the Farm Bureau and 4H leader for 38 years for the Southern Rebels 4-H Club. He served on the Fillmore Central School Board of Education for many years, including School Board President for several years. He was a member of the Wiscoy-Rossburg Fire Department for 15 years. Surviving in addition to his wife are 2 daughters, Mindy VanBuskirk (Chris Bierfeldt) of Little Valley, Kim (Chris) Reinbold of Whitesville, 3 step-daughters, Tanya (Mark) Nichols of Erie, Pa., Heidi (Bradley) Eastman of Denver, Colorado, Megan (Eric) Upright of Nunda, 2 sisters, Becky (Wayne) Hale of Caneadea, Connie (Carl) Richards of Silver Springs, 1 brother, Tim Parmenter of Fillmore, 8 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A private funeral service will be held at Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N. Genesee Street, Fillmore. Family and friends may gather from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on October 22, 2017 at the Fillmore Fire Hall where a memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Memorials if desired to: Wiscoy-Rossburg Fire Department P.O. Box 171 Fillmore, N.Y. 14735 or Southern Rebels 4-H Club c/o Kim Reinbold 1669 County Road 22 Whitesville, N.Y. 14897.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Friday September 29, 2017

Wellsville Police arrested Steven M. Jones, age 19 of Holden, MA, charging him with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and No/Insufficient Tail Lamps.  The charges stem from a traffic stop on the Genesee Parkway in the Village of Wellsville.  Jones was issued an appearance ticket and released.  Jones is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on November 14, 2017 at 4:30 p.m.

Wellsville Police arrested Jesse A. McKee, age 22 of Wellsville, charging him with a Sex Offender Registry Violation (Class E Felony).  McKee was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released.  McKee is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on October 10th at 4:30 p. m.

St. Bonaventure University welcomes four to Board of Trustees

 

ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y., Sept. 29, 2017 — St. Bonaventure University has welcomed four individuals to its Board of Trustees: Michael Anderson, Esq., ’77; Fr. Linh Hoang, O.F.M., Ph.D.; Fr. Daniel P. Horan, O.F.M., Ph.D., ’05; and Ann Swan. 

They will serve three-year terms, which began Sept. 16. 

Michael Anderson of Berwyn, Pa., recently retired as vice president and treasurer at West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of pharmaceutical packaging and delivery systems, headquartered in Exton, Pa. He had been with the company since 1992.

As VP and treasurer, Anderson managed the company’s retirement plan assets, valued at more than $500 million, and was chair of its Investment Committee. Prior to joining West, Anderson was a senior tax manager for PricewaterhouseCoopers in Philadelphia.  

Anderson graduated from St. Bonaventure in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He went on to receive his juris doctor degree from Villanova University School of Law in 1980. Anderson has been active as a volunteer with the university Philadelphia Alumni Chapter. 

Anderson and his wife, Monica (McEvoy), a 1978 Bonaventure graduate, have four children. Their daughter Molly received her master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from St. Bonaventure in 2015.  

The Anderson family is originally from Olean. Michael’s father, Dr. Joseph Anderson, was a physician whose patients included university friars and sisters from the Allegany Motherhouse. Seven of the 11 Anderson siblings graduated from St. Bonaventure. Michael has honored his parents with a gift to the university; the prayer room in the new McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry is named in their honor. 

Fr. Linh Hoang, a Franciscan friar of Holy Name Province, is an associate professor and chair of the Religious Studies Department at Siena College. 

Fr. Linh has published articles, books and book chapters in the areas of Asian American Catholics, Vietnamese Catholicism, comparative religion, migration, globalization, historical theology, and inter-generational religious practices. 

He is the author of the books “Southeast Asian Diaspora in the United States: Memories and Visions, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” and “Rebuilding Religious Experience: Vietnamese Refugees in America.” 

Fr. Linh received a Ph.D. in theology from Fordham University, Master of Philosophy in theology from Fordham University, a Master of Divinity in theology from Catholic Theological Union, a Master of Arts in theology from           Catholic Theological Union, and a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium.

 

Fr. Daniel P. Horan, a Franciscan friar of Holy Name Province, is assistant professor of systematic theology at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. 

He is the author of several books, including the award-winning “The Franciscan Heart of Thomas Merton: A New Look at the Spiritual Influence on his Life, Thought, and Writing.” His latest book, published in 2016, is titled “God Is Not Fair and other Reasons for Gratitude.” 

Fr. Dan is the author of more than 120 popular and scholarly articles; is a frequent lecturer and retreat director around the United States, Canada, and Europe; and has previously taught at Siena College, St. Bonaventure, and in the School of Theology and Ministry of Boston College. 

Fr. Dan serves on the Board of Regents of the Franciscan School of Theology in Oceanside, Calif., and previously served on the Board of Directors of the International Thomas Merton Society, as the Catholic chaplain at Babson College in Wellesley, Mass., and as a columnist for America magazine. 

He received his Ph.D. in theology from Boston College and Master of Divinity and Master of Arts from the Washington Theological Union. Fr. Dan graduated with honors from St. Bonaventure in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in theology and a minor in journalism and mass communication. In addition to several other recognitions, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Felician University of Rutherford, N.J., in 2015. 

Two of his three brothers, Sean, ’07, and Ryan, ’17, are also Bonaventure graduates.

 

Ann Swan is executive director of the William E. and Ann L. Swan Foundation and an active volunteer in the Buffalo area. She serves on the boards of Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora and YMCA Buffalo Niagara. She is a past board member of the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County, Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Foundation and Gilda’s Club. She also serves on the advisory board of Hillside Family of Agencies’ Work-Scholarship Connection, which aids at-risk youth.
Swan served on the Board of Trustees at Hilbert College from 2004 until 2017, including as board chair from 2010 until 2013.
She has been honored by her volunteer commitments in the Western New York area, receiving the President’s Medal from Hilbert College, the Bishop’s Medal from the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, and the Gaudete Medal from St. Bonaventure. Swan, who maintains residences in Clarence, N.Y., and Jupiter, Fla., is a graduate of SUNY at Buffalo and was a health and physical education teacher in Buffalo Public Schools for 29 years. 

The William E. and Ann L. Swan Business Center at St. Bonaventure is named for Ann and her late husband, Bill Swan, who was a 1969 graduate and former chairman of the Board of Trustees at the university. Ann Swan was awarded an honorary degree from St. Bonaventure in 2014.

An apology to Potter County Commissioners

I'm human and errors happen. When they occur, I make sure to accept responsibility and make a correction.
All day Thursday, my mind told me it was Friday (wishful thinking, I suspect). During the afternoon, I received, like always, the meeting minutes from the last Potter County Commissioners meeting and the agenda for the current meeting. The Commissioners meet every other Thursday (pretty much), but my mind was in Friday mode. So, like an idiot, I fired off an almost appropriate email to each Potter County Commissioner asking why the meeting agendas are sent out a day after the county meeting.  I stated (and those that know me can only imagine the verbiage), why agendas were sent out after the meeting...noting that the agenda is supposed to tell the public what officials plan to discuss...not...oh, by the way, this is what you missed.
So today at 2:30 a.m., I re-read the agenda email, paused and then looked at the calendar. I was a day off! Potter County officials did indeed send out the meeting agenda on time. It's not the best way to begin a work day. So, I quickly sent out an apology email to the Commissioners with my feeble excuse.
In my original catastrophic message to the government leaders, I did compliment Dawn Wooster who sends the Potter County information. I'm grateful for her efforts. I also complimented the Commissioners on their website, which is timely and helpful.
So I fall on the sword. To Douglas Morley, Paul Heimel and Susan Kefover... accept my apology. I believe that working from 2:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., naps are in order.

NY State Police Blotter

9/28/17 10:42pm- After investigating a fraud complaint in Clarksville, State Police arrested Michael Oldfield, 48, of Dansville. He was charged with grand larceny, a class D felony. He was detained for court action. The complaint was filed July 19th.
9/28/17 3:50pm- State Police arrested a 17-year-old name-protected Friendship boy. He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child. The arrest stems from a complaint filed last week. The boy, according to the blotter, was held on cash bail.
9/28/17 7:55pm- State Police arrested Justin K. Perry, 32, of Scio. He was charged with 2nd degree menacing with a weapon, a misdemeanor. The alleged incident happened earlier in the day in the Town of Scio. Perry was released on his own recognizance.
9/28/17 5pm- State Police arrested a 16-year-old name-protected boy from Caneadea. He was charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle. Court action is pending.
9/29/17 2:33am- A man from Sugerland, Texas was detained after he was pulled over on State Route 21 in Alfred. Troopers said William J. Cruse, 38, was charged with misdemeanor counts of driving while intoxicated and aggravated unlicensed operation. He also received tickets for unsafe turn and unregistered vehicle. He was detained.
9/28/17 8:15pm- State Police arrested Steven C. Schneider, 47, of Eldred during a traffic stop on Route 16 in Allegany. He was charged with driving while intoxicated and having a BAC above .08%. He was released on appearance tickets for court.

Houghton College Graduate Receives Prestigious Fulbright Grant

Marya Fancey

By Megan Fisher

HOUGHTON, NY - September 29, 2017 - Marya Fancey, a 1994 Houghton College graduate and doctoral candidate at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, recently received a Fulbright U.S. Student Program research grant.
Fancey’s award will allow her to travel to Poland and conduct musicological and performance-practice research for her doctoral project titled “Performance Practice in Sacred Organ Music from the Jan of Lublin Tablature (1537–48).” The Jan of Lublin Tablature is the largest collection of European organ music from the first half of the 16th century, with hundreds of compositions by multiple composers. The goal of Fancey’s research is to gain insight into the organ’s role in Catholic worship in Poland during that time.
Additionally, she will incorporate free public concerts of selections from the tablature at the Church of the Holy Cross in Kraków. Fancey will be affiliated with the Academy of Music in Kraków and the Institute of Art of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw.
“Polish musicologists and organists are generous and supportive,” said Fancey. “I look forward to learning from them and examining the original manuscript firsthand. The results of my research will contribute to the understanding of the development of keyboard music into its own art form.”
Fancey earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with music and philosophy majors while at Houghton. She continued her education at the University of South Carolina, where she received Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in organ performance.
The Fulbright Program is an international educational exchange program sponsored by the United States government. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to individuals whose work will increase mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and those of other countries. Among the 370,000 alumni are 57 Nobel Prize recipients, 82 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 37 heads of state or government. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers approximately 1,900 research, teaching, and study opportunities annually, encompassing all fields and enabling students to study in 140 countries.
To learn more about Marya Fancey’s Fulbright grant and project, visit HERE.

Bath: AAUW planning special one-time show on Saturday

American Association of University Women  BATH BRANCH members are preparing to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote in NYS. To celebrate this, Peg Inglis has written and directed an original play, “LADIES:  ITS TIME” featuring such notable women as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Abigail Adams, Amelia Bloomer, Lucy Stone along with a dozen other movers and shakers from this area. In story and in songs, ‘LADIES; IT’S TIME” will be performed one time only—Saturday evening September 30 at 7:00 PM at O’Malley Hall in Bath. Tickets are $15 per person and are available from any AAUW member or order them on line from BrownPaperTickets.com. In Bath look for out  Bright Blue Posters displayed in Bath area businesses  This event will benefit our annual college scholarships, one for a senior young lady graduating from high school and a mature woman whose college studies have been interrupted. Bath Branch AAUW has been empowering women since 1952. See history come alive in a fun way!

ICYMI: Jammin' For Judi, Saturday, in Wellsville

Setback for Opponents of Seneca Lake LPG Storage

A setback has been issued for opponents of the proposal to store liquid petroleum gas in depleted salt caverns near Seneca Lake.  In a filing dated September 8th, an administrative law judge issued a ruling that there is no need for further hearings on the issues raised by “Gas Free Seneca” and similar groups.  The document states that “petitioners fail to raise any adjudicable issues.”  Reportedly, Gas Free Seneca expects to appeal the ruling to the DEC.  They have until October 20th to do so.

No Charges to be Filed in Fatal Waneta Lake Accident

The investigation by the Schuyler County District Attorney’s Office into a boating death on Waneta Lake in August has concluded, and D.A. Joe Fazzary says that it was a tragic accident and no charges will be filed.  According to the Sheriff’s Office, 17-year-old Owen Thomas, of Brighton, died after falling overboard around 8 p.m. on August 10^th.  Two other people were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Thursday September 28, 2017

Wellsville Police arrested Robert N. Young, age 28 of Wellsville, charging him with a Probation Violation.  Young was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Judge O’Connor.  Young was committed to the Allegany County Jail on $2,500.00 cash bail or $5,000.00 property bond.  Young is due back in Wellsville Village Court on October 17th at 4:30 p.m.

Wellsville Police, acting on a Bench Warrant issued by the City of Olean Court, arrested Aimee D. McNeill, age 27 of Wellsville.  McNeill was processed and turned over to the City of Olean Police Department.  McNeill was due to appear in the City of Olean Court at a later date.

Potter County: Heroin Epidemic Documented In Latest Report

Potter County Today
Some eye-opening statistics on the local drug epidemic were shared during a presentation to Potter County Commissioners Doug Morley, Paul Heimel and Susan Kefover. Colleen Wilber, director of drug and alcohol services for the county, confirmed that abuse of opiods – including heroin – has eclipsed alcohol in referrals to her agency. She hastened to add that alcohol abuse remains a serious problem. There has been a significant increase in heroin overdoses in Potter County, some of them fatal, Wilber said.
She pointed out that a larger proportion of clients than ever, some 89 percent, are being referred by the criminal justice system for addiction assessment and treatment. Other are through self-reporting or being referred by Children and Youth Services. While opioid use and abuse is pervasive, she added, her office has noticed an increase in the diagnosis of methamphetamine as a primary drug of choice, as well as a consistent rate of chronic marijuana use. Wilber detailed a series of steps her agency and the court system have been taking to address addiction issues, ranging from treatment courts and evidenced-based school programs, to prescription take-back boxes and making more effective use of data collection and analysis.

Livingston County District Attorney Report

After presentation by Joshua J. Tonra, Assistant District Attorney, the following cases were handled in the Livingston County Court before the Honorable Robert B. Wiggins on September 26, 2017.

WILLIAM E. BUFFUM, age 51, formerly of Livingston Correctional Facility, charged with Promoting Prison Contraband in the First Degree (D Felony), appeared with his attorney and the matter was adjourned to October 10, 2017 hearings.

SHELLY DUTTON, age 45, of Avon admitted a violation of probation and the matter was adjourned to October 3, 2017 for sentencing.

CHASE J. FRANCIS-WHIPSET, age 28, of Caledonia was sentenced on a conviction of Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree (E Felony) to 5 years probation. He was also ordered to pay an $88 penalty assessment and a $50 DNA fee.

LEQUAN M. HILL, age 24, formerly of Livingston Correctional Facility, convicted of Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband in the First Degree (E Felony) appeared with his attorney and the matter was adjourned to October 31, 2017 for sentencing.

ROSCOE J. HOWARD, age 46, of Rochester was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree (E Felony), Inadequate Exhaust, and Inadequate Windshield. He was arraigned with his attorney, pled not guilty, and the matter was adjourned to November 21, 2017.

JUSTIN T. IKELER, age 33, of Dansville pled guilty to Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (E Felony) and the matter was adjourned to October 3, 2017 for sentencing.

DESHAWN JAMES, age 23, formerly of Groveland Correctional Facility was sentenced on a conviction of Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband in the First Degree (E Felony) to 1 1/2 to 3 years in state prison as a second felony offender. He was also ordered to pay a $325 penalty assessment and a $50 DNA fee.

CHELSEA L. O'HARE, age 23, of Rochester pled guilty to Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (E Felony) and the matter was adjourned to December 19, 2017 for sentencing.

ANNIE L. MALARA, age 30, of Elmira, charged with Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree (D Felony), Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (D Felony), Misuse of Food Stamps (E Felony), and 2 counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree (E Felony), appeared with her attorney and the matter was adjourned to October 10, 2017.

ROSITA MONTANEZ, age 54, of Bronx was sentenced on a conviction of Attempted Promoting Prison Contraband in the First Degree (E Felony) to time-served and 5 years probation. She was also ordered to pay a $325 penalty assessment and a $50 DNA fee.

MELWIN 0. ROSARIO, age 28, of Nunda was charged with Assault in the First Degree (B Felony), Assault in the Second Degree (D Felony), and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (D Felony). He was arraigned with his attorney, pled not guilty, and the matter was adjourned to October 31, 2017. An Order of Protection was issued for the victims.

ERICA C. STEFANO, age 36, of Piffard, charged with Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree (D Felony), Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (D Felony), Misuse of Food Stamps (D Felony), and 2 counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree (E Felony), appeared without her attorney and the matter was adjourned to October 31, 2017.

Hornell: Buckley to receive Fire endorsement

For immediate release:
Hornell Firefighters Association- IAFF Local 835 will endorse John Buckley for Mayor of the City of Hornell.
When: Today at 6pm

Where: John Buckley and Friends Campaign Headquarters 

79 Seneca St, Hornell

This will be the first time the Hornell Firefighters Association endorses a candidate for any office.

After the endorsement, festivities will move across the street to the American Legion for cocktails. 

This event is open to the public. 

Allegany County Churches Set Weekend Prayer Activites

A church at Wellsville and a youth center in Fillmore are sites this weekend for Journey to Transformation public prayer gatherings for Allegany County and beyond.

      -- A regular, rotating Friday night community prayer for host, community and county churches, along with transformation within Allegany County and beyond, is being held from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Full Gospel Church, 2221 Hanover Hill Road, Wellsville.  Next Friday's gathering, for renewing of minds and hearts of individuals and families for county and communities revitalization, will be held at the same time at The Presbyterian Church of Wellsville, 69 North Main Street.

      -- Weekly community prayer is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday at the Powerhouse Youth Center, 23 West Main Street, Fillmore.  Other ongoing area prayer gatherings during the week, also open to the public, are available from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. each weekday morning at Knights Creek Evangelical Methodist Church, 2987 County Road 9, Scio, and 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesdays at the Belfast Free Methodist Church, 11 Chestnut Street.  The public is invited to bring prayer concerns for family, friends and other situations.
     Updates on the Journey to Transformation movement by Allegany County churches are available at their internet connections page at www.facebook.com/TransformationJourneyUSA<https://www.facebook.com/TransformationJourneyUSA, with further information on the initiative and its individual components also available from Pastor Dan Kenyon, Wellsville Bible Church, at wbc@ne.twcbc.com or (585) 593-6471, or most area pastors.

Houghton College to Hold Homecoming & Family Weekend 2017

Children, families, alumni, and the community will join in the fun at Homecoming & Family Weekend 2017.

By Megan Fisher
HOUGHTON, NY - September 28, 2017 - Houghton College will celebrate Homecoming & Family Weekend 2017 on Friday, October 6 and Saturday, October 7.
Friday’s events will include the presentation of Houghton Alumni Awards at the morning Homecoming Legacy Chapel, a book signing by historical fantasy author and 2013 Houghton graduate Elle (Laura Katherine White), and the Homecoming Collage concert, where ensembles of the Greatbatch School of Music will join together for an evening of beautiful music.
Saturday’s events will begin with a groundbreaking ceremony in the morning for the new equestrian arena at the Houghton College Equestrian Center, followed by an open house and equestrian showcase.
All are invited to witness and participate in the first-ever bagpipe parade later that morning, an exciting event led by bagpiper Andrew Hutton ’18 and featuring Houghton College President Shirley A. Mullen, alumni, athletic teams, student groups, and more. The parade will be streamed online via Facebook Live and finish at the Kerr-Pegula Field House (KPFH), where the college will officially kick off its $70 million comprehensive campaign titled “IMPACT: The Campaign for a Greater Houghton.”
After the ceremony, all are invited to enjoy lunch and the “Hands-on Houghton” Festival at the KPFH. Families will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities, including interactive events with academic departments, giant Jenga and other games, and entertainment from “Dr. Bubbles,” portrayed by 1968 Houghton graduate Richard Close.
Additionally, Houghton Highlander athletics will compete on Saturday, with cross-country, field hockey, tennis, and soccer competitions throughout the day.
To see the full schedule for Homecoming & Family Weekend 2017, visit www.houghton.edu/homecoming<http://www.houghton.edu/homecoming>.

Allegany County Farm Bureau Annual Banquet

Andover Village could still be close to trouble, says state comproller

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System has designated 27 municipalities across the state as fiscally stressed. The list, which includes eight counties, eight cities and 11 towns, marks the fewest number of municipalities listed in stress since DiNapoli implemented his early-warning system in 2013.
Surprisingly, many would say, the village and town of Wellsville...aren't even close to making the list!

The fentanyl crisis in New York - lawmakers continue tough talk- 'Deeds, not words'

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a series of aggressive new actions to combat the fentanyl crisis in communities across New York State. The Governor will advance legislation to add 11 fentanyl analogs to the state controlled substances schedule, giving law enforcement the ability to go after the dealers who manufacture and sell. To further protect New Yorkers, the Governor is also directing the New York State Department of Financial Services to take immediate action to Advise Insurers Against placing arbitrary limits on the number of naloxone doses covered by an insurance plan. As fentanyl can be up to 50 times more powerful than heroin and it can take multiple doses of naloxone to reverse a fentanyl overdose, this new measure will ensure access to adequate doses of overdose reversal medication and save lives.

 

"Drug dealers and trafficking organizations are flooding our streets with addictive, deadly drugs that devastate families and destroy lives in communities across our state, and we must take bold action to close loopholes and hold these criminals responsible," Governor Cuomo said. "I'm calling on the Legislature to ban these new types of fentanyl and equip law enforcement with tools to go after these dangerous dealers to stop this scourge on our communities, and help build a safer, stronger New York for all."

 

In New York State, overdose deaths involving opioids increased nearly 35 percent between 2015 and 2016. However, fentanyl-related deaths increased at a much higher rate—nearly 160 percent statewide. Fentanyl-related deaths in New York City increased by more than 310 percent, while fentanyl-related deaths in counties outside of New York City increased by more than 110 percent.

 

Over the past few years, fentanyl analogs have been increasingly found in heroin and cocaine sold in New York State. They are also being pressed into pill form to resemble name-brand prescription opioids. Fentanyl analogs vary in potency, but can be 100 times stronger than morphine. Just three milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, compared to 30 milligrams of heroin. Heroin and cocaine containing deadly concentrations of these synthetic opioids have been increasingly present in communities throughout New York State.

 

To combat the fentanyl crisis, Governor Cuomo will advance legislation to close a glaring loophole in state law and add the following 11 fentanyl analogs to Schedule I of the controlled substance schedules of New York State Public Health Law §3306: AH-7921; Acetyl Fentanyl; ButyrylFentanyl; Beta-Hydroxythiofentanyl; Furanyl Fentanyl; U-47700; and Acryl Fentanyl (or Acryloylfentanyl); N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-phenethylpiperidin-4-yl)isobutyramide; Ortho-Fluorofentanyl; Tetrahydrofuranyl Fentanyl; Methoxyacetyl Fentanyl. The 11 substances are already listed on the federal schedule of controlled substances. The legislation will also give the New York State Health Commissioner the authority to add to the state controlled substances schedule any new drugs that have been added to the federal schedule.

 

As just .25 milligrams of fentanyl, or about the size of a head of a pin, can potentially result in death, the state is taking new measures to stop the scourge of this dangerous drug. Over the past three years across the country, deaths from synthetic drugs like fentanyl, have sky-rocketed more than 500 percent. At the Governor's direction, DFS will take immediate action to prevent insurers from placing arbitrary limits on coverage for overdose reversal drugs, and ensure New Yorkers have access to adequate doses of life-saving naloxone.

 

In New York State, a preliminary analysis conducted by the Department of Health identified more than 2,900 opioid-related deaths among state residents in 2016. At the same time, fentanyl-related deaths among residents increased at a much higher rate—nearly 160 percent statewide. Fentanyl proper is a Schedule II synthetic opiate, with medical uses as a painkiller, an anesthetic, and in palliative care. Fentanyl's listing as a Schedule II controlled substance, available by prescription only, makes it a felony to sell on the street and a crime to use the opiate without a prescription. In response, underground labs have tweaked the molecular structure of fentanyl to create new, unregulated chemicals referred to as fentanyl analogs. These deadly cousins are chemically similar to fentanyl—and often many times more potent—but are not listed on New York State's schedule of controlled substances, and therefore not subject to the same criminal penalties.  

State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II said, "Our members have firsthand experience with overdose deaths caused by fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, which dealers often mix with heroin to increase its potency. These actions will help us hold these dealers accountable, and educate the public about the dangers of these deadly drugs."

The Governor's call for legislative action builds upon New York's multi-faceted strategy to combat the heroin and opioid epidemic. In April of this year, the Governor signed historic legislation investing over $200 million to address the epidemic through a comprehensive approach targeting each component of heroin and opioid addition- prevention, treatment, and recovery. These investments included: 

•            $145 million for community-based providers  

• $65 million for 8,000 residential treatment beds
• $9 million for housing units
• $41 million for opioid treatment programs
• $21 million for outpatient services
• $9 million for crisis/detox programs  

•            $27 million for state-operated addiction treatment centers

•            $6 million for naloxone kits and training

•            $25 million for expanded programs, including family support navigators, peer engagement and 24/7 urgent access centers.  

Over the past three years, Governor Cuomo has put into place expansive new policies to fight heroin and opioid addiction, including:

• Limiting initial opioid prescriptions for acute pain from 30 to 7 days
• Expanding insurance coverage for substance use disorder treatment
• Increasing access and enhancing treatment capacity across the state, including a major expansion of opioid treatment and recovery services
• Implementing the comprehensive I-STOP law to curb prescription drug abuse
• Launching a public awareness and prevention campaign to inform New Yorkers about the dangers of heroin use and opioid misuse and the disease of addiction
• Assembling a task force to propose initiatives to tackle the heroin and opioid epidemic