Obituary: Erland D. Kailbourne, 100, Wellsville

Erland D. Kailbourbe, 100, of Wellsville, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 in Hart Comfort House, Wellsville. Friends may call Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY.  Burial will be held privately in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 7, 2018 in the First United Methodist Church, Wellsville, NY.  The Rev. Gregory DeSalvatore will officiate. Memorials may be made to David A. Howe Library, 155 N. Main St., Wellsville, NY 14895 or Hart Comfort House, 141 E. State St., Wellsville, NY 14895. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Olean: Arrest made after police discover active Meth lab

Olean Police responded to 119 Irving St. on Monday, January 29th at approximately 3:15 p.m. to investigate information received of a possible ‘Meth cooking operation’ taking place at one of the three apartments contained in the building. Upon inspection of the upstairs apartment it was allegedly determined, according to a press release, that there were dangerous items used in the Meth making process and occupants were removed. The New York State Police Contaminated Crime Scene response team was notified and responded. After a warrant was obtained by Investigators, a search was conducted and several items were seized. The investigation is still ongoing and one man has been arrested and charged in this crime. Police said 19-year-old Savion D. Shaffer, of 127 ½ E Henley Street, was arrested on Tuesday January 30th at 3:10 a.m. for Manufacturing Methamphetamine (D Felony) and Criminal possession of a controlled substance 2nd degree (A Felony). Shaffer was arraigned in Olean City Court and jailed on $50,000 bail.

 

Canaseraga man - Georgia jail, Allegany County jail, now Livingston County jail

AVON: Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports the arrest of Canaseraga man on felony charges after the investigation of a burglary in 2016.

On July 15, 2016 the Sheriff's Office responded to an address on Bronson Hill Road in the Town of Avon for a reported burglary to a residence. The investigation conducted by Deputy Sheriffs identified one of the alleged suspects as 29-year-old Jason M. Wolf. However, Sheriff’s Investigators discovered that Wolf had fled the state and was in jail in the state of Georgia on unrelated charges.

Investigators obtained an arrest warrant for charges of felony Burglary in the 2nd Degree, Petit Larceny, and Criminal Mischief in the 4th Degree.

Upon Wolf's release from Cobb's County Jail in Georgia, he was extradited to the Allegany County Jail in New York State and held on charges there on a separate case.

On January 26, 2018 Wolf was released from Allegany County Jail and taken into custody by Livingston County Deputies.

Wolf 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 at $5,000 cash or $10,000 bond on the matter. Wolf was later arraigned in the Town of Avon Court before Judge Michael Torregiano. The Judge remanded Wolf to the custody of the Sheriff on the recommended bail.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Tuesday January 30, 2018

Wellsville Police arrested Cheyenne M. Miller, age 27 of Wellsville, charging her with Issuing a Bad Check.  The charge stems from a complaint made by Pizza King in Wellsville.  Miller was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released. Miller is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on February 20th at 4:30 p.m.

Wellsville Police, acting on a Bench Warrant issued by the Wellsville Village Court, arrested Henry R. Farley Jr, age 59 of Wellsville, for failure to appear in Court and/or pay fine.  Farley was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Judge O’Connor.  Farley was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court at a later date to make payment on his fine.

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

Allegany County Sheriff Rick Whitney reports that on January 29, 2018, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Ryan R. Mitchell, 25, of Scio on an Allegany County Violation of Probation Warrant.  Mitchell was located by Deputies at his residence where he was taken into custody without incident. Mitchell was then processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail where he was held without bail pending additional court action.

Report: Alarming Increases in New York State Construction Fatalities

January 31, 2018 – New York, New York – The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) released its latest construction fatality report, “Deadly Skyline: An Annual Report on Construction Fatalities in New York State.” Researchers found alarming increases in New York State construction fatalities and that employers routinely violate legal regulations with impunity.

NYCOSH’s report unveiled a number of findings and recommendations to improve worker safety in New York State.

Key Findings:

• In 2016, New York State had a 60% higher construction fatality rate than New York City. Over the past five years, the New York City fatal occupational injury rate in construction decreased by 21.3%, while the New York State rate increased by 29.5% over the same period of time.
• Non-union job sites are especially dangerous for workers. NYCOSH analyzed OSHA’s 36 investigated construction fatality citations in 2016 and found that in New York State, 94.7% of workers who died on private worksites were non-union. In New York City, 93.8% of construction workers who died on private worksites in 2016 were non-union.
• Falls continue to be the top cause of construction fatalities in New York State and New York City. In all of New York State in the past ten years, 218 workers died in falls, which account for 48% of all construction fatalities. In New York City alone, over the past ten years, 101 workers died due to falls, which on average accounted for 46% of all construction deaths.
• Enforcement agencies are drastically underfunded. NYCOSH conducted an in-depth analyses of OSHA inspections in New York State since OSHA’s founding and found a staggering decrease in inspections over the past twenty years.
• OSHA construction fines for fatality cases remain low. Average OSHA fines in construction fatality cases decreased by 7%, to $20,217.

 

NYCOSH’s Recommendations Include:

• Require construction training and certification for New York State’s construction workers. Municipalities and New York State need to create rigorous training requirements for construction workers.
• Establish funding streams for construction safety training programs in New York City. As the requirements for construction safety trainings increase, so too must the funding to provide such training, especially to ensure that low-wage immigrant workers have the opportunity to access them.
• Preserve the Scaffold Safety Law. Given that fall-fatalities are the top cause of death on construction sites and the preventability of such deaths, this legislation must be defended.
• Pass Carlos’ Law to ensure corporate responsibility for worker fatalities. For too long, workers’ deaths on the job have been quickly dismissed as “unfortunate accidents,” regardless of the role played by employers, contractors, and owners in contributing to their death.
• Expand criminal prosecutions statewide. Across the state, DAs must exercise their power to hold criminal contractors accountable when the failure to protect workers rises to the level of a criminal offense.
• Use existing city power to suspend or revoke licenses and construction permits for criminal contractors. New York City and other municipalities have broad power within their licensing and permitting processes to keep criminal contractors from operating unsafely and endangering workers and the public. 

“We need to take action now to end the crisis of rising construction fatalities in New York State. These deaths are almost always preventable and could be deterred by passing sensible legislation in New York State and by protecting existing legislation, such as the Scaffold Safety Law, that protects workers,” said Charlene Obernauer, Executive Director of NYCOSH. 

### 

ABOUT NYCOSH: The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) is a membership organization of workers, unions, community-based organizations, workers’ rights activists, and health and safety professionals. NYCOSH uses training, education, and advocacy to improve health and safety conditions in our workplaces, our communities, and our environment. Founded 35 years ago on the principle that workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths are preventable, NYCOSH works to extend and defend every person’s right to a safe and healthy workplace.

NYS Assembly Passes Legislation to Provide Legal Remedy For Medical Malpractice For Negligent Failure to Diagnose Cancer

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Ways and Means Chair Helene Weinstein Tuesday announced that the Assembly has passed legislation to amend the law regarding medical malpractice claims for negligent failed cancer diagnoses. The bill, often referred to as "Lavern's Law," would adjust the date when the statute of limitations clock begins from the actual date of malpractice, to the date that a patient learns, or should have learned, they have experienced medical negligence regarding a cancer diagnosis.
"When it comes to treating life-threatening illnesses, we know that time is of the essence," said Speaker Heastie. "Under this legislation, individuals who have suffered the consequences of a missed diagnosis will be given the opportunity to seek justice."
"Without this legislation, cancer patients are at continued risk of having their rights expire before they even discover malpractice," said Assemblymember Weinstein. "Current law has for too long denied individuals their day in court and fails to hold medical professionals responsible for their mistakes, which can have life-and-death consequences for their patients."
Under current law, the statute of limitations begins when the malpractice occurred and ends two and a half years after the date of malpractice. Under the bill, the statute of limitations for medical, dental or podiatric malpractice for actions involving a failure to diagnose cancer or a malignant tumor would not begin until the patient discovers, or should have discovered, the malpractice (A.9633, Weinstein). The patient would then have two and a half years to pursue a malpractice action, though not to exceed seven years after the date of malpractice.
Missed diagnoses sometimes go unnoticed when patients do not experience any symptoms following malpractice. This bill would offer a legal remedy for an individual who has suffered as a result of such malpractice and potentially offer an incentive for health care providers to provide more thorough care.

Allegany County Office for the Aging offers tax help

The Allegany County Office for the Aging, in conjunction with AARP and the Internal Revenue Service, is again offering free tax assistance for low to moderate income seniors who live in Allegany County.  The Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program (TCE) has volunteer Counselors who are trained and certified to help people age 60 and over with federal and state income tax returns.
Tax Counselors will be available at three Clinics throughout Allegany County.  Appointments are not necessary for assistance at these Clinics.

Tax Counselors are also available by appointment only on Mondays and Fridays during February, March, and early April at the Crossroads Building in Belmont.  Appointments can be made by calling the Office for the Aging at 585-268-9390 or toll free 1-866-268-9390. 

Persons using the service should bring photo ID, Social Security Cards for each member in the household, copies of their previous year’s federal and state tax returns and documentation for the current year, including W-2’s, 1099R’s, 1099 from Social Security, Interest and Dividend Statements from Savings Accounts and other relevant materials showing income for the year.   Also Form 1095A is needed if Health Insurance had been purchased on the Marketplace.

If you would like to volunteer to be a Tax Counselor next year, please call Volunteer Coordinator Karen Chamberlain at the Allegany County Office for the Aging at 585-268-9390.

Obituary: Ralph E. Bryant, 90, Wellsville

Wellsville, NY - Ralph E. Bryant, 90, of 5407 Bolivar Road went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 27, 2018 surrounded by his loving family at Jones Memorial Hospital. He was born on June 24, 1927 in Bradford, PA, the son of the late LeRoy and Henrietta (Crandall) Bryant. On May 9, 1948 in Limestone he married Elizabeth McGee who survives.

He was employed by Dresser Clark of Bradford, PA for 43 years.  He loved the Lord and served Him with his whole heart. He also loved spending time with his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons, Ralph (Sherrie) Bryant of Salem, IN, Michael (Vicki) Bryant of Wellsville, and Timothy Bryant of Rew, PA, seven grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, one sister Marian Lindemuth of Bradford, PA, one brother Daniel Bryant of Limestone, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by two brothers, Edwin and Phillip Bryant and one sister, Lorraine Smith.  

A celebration of life is being planned for a later date. Please consider memorial donations to Highland Park Healthcare Center. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: John L. Smith, 73, Bolivar

Bolivar, NY - John L. Smith, age 73, of Bolivar passed away on Sunday January 28, at the Wellsville Manor Care Center in Wellsville. He was born on April 13, 1944 in Chicago Illinois. John was a former resident of Buffalo and Wellsville and in the past year he resided in Bolivar. He served in the US Marine Corps and was a member of the Wellsville Family Church. John is survived by a daughter, Karen Brior of Seneca Falls; a special friend, Kelly Shaner of Wellsville, and his church family. Friends are invited to attend a memorial celebration at the Wellsville Family Church, 3151 Wightman Road, Wellsville, New York, on Saturday February 3 at 10 am. Memorials in John’s name made be made to the SPCA serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Janine M. Preston, 66, Belfast

 

Belfast, NY - Janine M. Preston, age 66, of Belfast, NY, passed away unexpectedly on January 27, 2018. She was born in Cuba, New York, on October 4, 1951, to James “Red” and Marie (McMahon) Allen.

Janine graduated from Friendship Central School as salutatorian of her class in 1969. She was owner/manager at Preston Truck Sales before furthering her education. Janine graduated from Jamestown Community College, earning Associate’s degrees in Nursing and Social Sciences. She began her career as a registered nurse at Cuba Memorial Hospital and then worked at Hillside Children’s Center, supervising the medical care of foster children. After retirement, she served as the director of the Belfast Public Library, providing enriching and popular programs to both youth and adult patrons. Janine also served on the Belfast Central School Board for 15 years and was an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Throughout the years, Janine baked and decorated amazing cakes for special occasions from birthdays to weddings and enjoyed hosting gatherings. She loved taking care of her family. Janine enjoyed traveling, having visited Ireland, France, Italy, Romania, Australia, the Bahamas, Alaska, Hawaii, and many other destinations. She was an avid patron of local theater and shared this appreciation with her family. She also painted, crafted, gardened, and played the guitar. Her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren adored her for her patience and fun-loving spirit. 

Janine is survived by her children, Mark (Lisa) Preston of Rochester, Brian (Amanda) Preston of Belfast, Sarah (Derek) Decker of Fillmore, and Michael (Patty) Preston of Belfast; grandchildren, Grace, Serena (Damien Dahill), Collin, Benjamin, Alexis, Brynn, Lydia, Henry, Ella, and Norah; siblings, Thomas (Kay) Allen of Wellsville, Timothy (Terry, deceased) Allen of Belfast, Susan (Ron) Trail of Bath, Anne (David) Cummins of North Carolina, and Raymond Allen of Pennsylvania; and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving is her aunt, Ellen Dorsett of Wisconsin, who was very special to Janine.  She was predeceased by her parents, Marie and James, and sisters, Pamela and Catherine.

Friends are invited to call on Friday, February 2nd from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at J. W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, 17 Schuyler Street in Belmont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Belfast on Saturday, February 3rd at 11 a.m.  Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Belmont. Memorials in her honor may be made to the Belfast Public Library Board, P.O. Box 455, Belfast, NY, 14711.

Janine was beloved for her generosity, humor, kindness, and dedication to the community. She graciously nurtured her friends, family, and young people and was a gentle, loving presence to all . To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Theodore P. Johnson, 75, Hornell

Hornell - Theodore P. Johnson, 75, of Wood Street, passed away Monday (January 29, 2018) in Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania.
Born in Pontiac, Michigan, February 7, 1942, the son of Gustave Adolph and Elizabeth Tisch Johnson, he was a graduate of Cuba Central School and had made his home in Canisteo prior to moving to Hornell in the late 1960’s.
Ted had been employed as a welder at the former Foster Wheeler Corporation in Dansville and operated his own snow removal service for several years in the Hornell area.
He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Virginia “Ginny” Johnson in 2015; his siblings ; Marjorie Cutcher, Donald Johnson, Gustave Adolph Johnson Jr, and Lewis Robert Johnson.
He is survived by his daughters; Kimberly (David) Young of South Carolina, Karen (Anthony) Eveland of Webster, NY and Kristine (Michael) Hillman of Colorado, his sister, Betty Harder of Florida and his brother, Phillip Johnson of Maryland, four grandchildren; Ricky Earley, Connor Earley, Brooke Hillman and Jeramiah Hillman, nieces and nephews.
To send a remembrance to the family, please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by Gerald R. Brown, Director.
The family will be present to receive friends on Friday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Bender- Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo Street, Hornell, where Funeral services will be held following calling hours at 1:00 p.m., Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery, Canisteo.

Obituary: John L. Smith, 73, Bolivar

Bolivar - John L. Smith, 73, of Bolivar passed away on Sunday, January 28, at the Wellsville Manor Care Center in Wellsville. He was born on April 13, 1944 in Chicago, Illinois. John was a former resident of Buffalo and Wellsville and in the past year he resided in Bolivar. He served in the US Marine Corps and was a member of the Wellsville Family Church. John is survived by a daughter, Karen Brior of Seneca Falls; a special friend, Kelly Shaner of Wellsville, and his church family. Friends are invited to attend a memorial celebration at the Wellsville Family Church, 3151 Wightman Road, Wellsville, New York, on Saturday February 3 at 10 a.m. Memorials in John’s name may be made to the SPCA serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

NY Senate passes legislation to protect children on ski slopes

Press Release:
The New York State Senate Monday passed a bill to help prevent children from dangerous head injuries while participating in winter sports. The legislation (S1376), sponsored by Senator Betty Little (R-C-I, Queensbury), requires skiers and snowboarders under 14 years of age to wear a protective helmet while riding the slopes at ski areas in New York.
Senator Little said, “Requiring kids to wear a helmet is a reasonable and smart approach to keeping them safe.  As we’ve seen more and more studies on concussions, I am hopeful this will be the year this common-sense bill passes both houses of the Legislature and gets signed into law.”
According to a recent scientific paper published by ATSM International, researchers concluded that potentially serious head injuries (PSHI) dropped as ski helmet usage increased over a period of time from 1995-2012. Furthermore, increased helmet usage has proven to reduce all head injuries, and especially PSHI, according to the National Ski Areas Association.
Similar to the state’s bicycle helmet law, this measure would help decrease the number of head injuries suffered by children while skiing or snowboarding in New York. Ski areas – which have expressed support for the legislation - would post signs at their information boards and on-site locations where lift tickets are sold notifying guests of the helmet requirements as well as the availability of helmets for rental or purchase. Lift tickets would also include language about the law. 
The bill has been sent to the Assembly.

Masonry students building outdoor kitchen area on Wellsville campus

 

Students in Alfred State’s masonry program have been hard at work cooking up something special for the School of Applied Technology, particularly the Culinary Arts Department.
Recently, the students completed the first phase of a three-phase project to build an outdoor kitchen area behind the bakery lab facility on the Wellsville campus.
According to Stephen Richard, associate professor in the Building Trades Department, the space, which is about 450 square feet, will enhance the culinary and baking curricula; students will experience hosting and catering special events and creating specialty food in the setting of the outdoor kitchen.
When completed, the space will include a wood-fired pizza oven and smoker, as well as countertop grills and prep space. This equipment will allow culinary and culinary arts: baking, production and management students to bake various breads, and to smoke fish, meats, and poultry in a different setting.
“At our College of Applied Technology, we feature a project-based learning environment,” Richard said. “The students’ educational process includes lectures, but predominantly student projects that the students build, make, fabricate, repair, fix, restore, weld, etc. These projects can be temporary mock-ups, or built-in-place structures. So in masonry, we are always looking for the ‘right’ projects to build, such as this one.”
This project reflects the awareness of industry trends to prepare masonry, culinary, and baking students for success in their careers. Outdoor gathering spaces with patios, fire pits, pizza ovens, and full kitchens have become increasingly popular.
Furthermore, the culinary and baking industry has seen a higher demand for more natural ways of preparing food — including curing and fabricating meat — as well as catering, staging, and food cart and truck services. With the opportunity to work on such projects, students are able to gain relevant, hands-on learning experiences without having to venture offsite.
When in use during daytime classes, the space will accommodate 15 to 20 students for lab activities. There are future plans for the outdoor kitchen to be a location for hosting special events.
“We're excited to add the outdoor kitchen area as another valuable hands-on learning opportunity for our students,” said Deb Burch, chair of the Culinary Arts Department. “The masonry students and professors have done an amazing job creating this new space, and we cannot wait to see this project come to fruition.”
The second phase of the project will consist of laying paver brick in the outdoor kitchen area, scheduled to be completed by masonry students during this semester. The final phase, relocating the dumpster and building outdoor countertops with grills and cold storage will be completed in fall 2018.

Cold Case Tuesday: New York State Police in Olean continue to investigate the 1970 Allegany murder

PRESS RELEASE 
Cold Case Tuesday: The New York State Police in Olean continue to investigate the 1970 murder of Carol A. Fitzmaurice in the town of Allegany, NY.  
On October 20, 1970, Carol A. Fitzmaurice, age 23, was found murdered at her residence of 2678 West Five Mile Road in the town of Allegany, NY.  The victim was found by her husband, Daniel Fitzmaurice, when he returned home from work.  The deceased was stabbed multiple times in her abdomen and neck, during a struggle in the living room of the residence.  
During a search of the surrounding area the apparent murder weapon, a carving knife believed to be from the residence, was discovered in a creek behind the home (pictured).

The investigation is ongoing. While State Police have continued to receive tips and information pertaining to the circumstances surrounding the incident, the identity of the perpetrator(s) of this crime are unknown.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Investigator John Zeigler of the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Olean by calling (716) 372-2550.  Please refer to SJS # 3021514.

Former EMS trainer charged with grand larceny; allegedly filed false time sheets

ELMIRA, N.Y. (18 NEWS) - A former EMSTAR employee is facing a felony grand larceny charge after it's alleged that she submitted time sheets for time which she did not work. 

55-year-old Vanessa Jewett, of Breesport, was employed as an EMS trainer when she allegedly submitted the time sheets, and received payment in excess of $1,000.

Jewett was released on her own recognizance, and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date. Click the link to read more...

Former EMS trainer charged with grand larceny; allegedly filled false time sheets:

UR Medicine | Noyes Health Earns Excellus Recognition for Maternity Care

Pictured L-R: Nicole Hancock, Christine Ellis, DeNae Gibson and Kathryn Holler.

Staff of Noyes’ Family Birthing Center were delighted to learn that for the third consecutive year, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has recognized UR Medicine | Noyes Health with a Blue Distinction® Center+ for Maternity Care for demonstrating expertise in delivering improved patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures that were developed with input from the medical community.

League of Women Voters of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties to meet Jan. 31

The next monthly meeting of the League of Women Voters of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties takes place on Wednesday, January 31 at 7:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Cuba, Fellowship Hall, 17 South Street, Cuba, NY. Church phone: 585-968-1531

 

On the Agenda:

1. Reports

2. Project Updates

3. NYS League legislative agenda for 2018

4. Determining our position on NYS League topics:

* Death & Dying

* Charter Schools

* Lobbying Training

5. Goals for the remainder of the FY ending June 30, 2018

6. Annual meeting date, nominating committee

7. Articles, projects and suggestions to share

 

Please RSVP by calling Margie McIntosh at 716-904-1327 or email reelitteer@roadrunner.com.

History Preservation Roundtable of Allegany County works to keep local history alive and well

The History Preservation Roundtable of Allegany County (HPRAC) is interested in placing a historic marker at a site in Allegany County that is not currently marked as an important site in Allegany County’s history.  In order to include many possible sites for consideration, HPRAC would like suggestions as to an appropriate site.  Suggestions can be submitted by any resident or non-resident of Allegany County; we encourage people of all ages, from students to Senior citizens, to participate.  Although folklore and peoples’ memories are interesting in recalling history, we will be selecting the site based on written documentation, preferably from several sources such as old newspapers, books, photos, maps, and other written records.  A persuasive reason why the site should be selected should also be submitted.Interested applicants should contact Rose Feenaughty  maryfee2@stny.rr.com or NancyMayoikenan@rochester.rr.com prior to submitting their selections.  All suggestions must be made to Rose and Nancy received no later than Memorial Day, 2018. The final decision will be made by July 4, 2018.Plans are being made by the Roundtable committee and further information will be available in the future. For further information, please email or call Rose Fee naughty 585-928-1796 or Nancy Mayo 585-268-8025. 

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Sunday January 28, 2018

Wellsville Police arrested Laura A. Wojciechowski, age 30 of Hamburg, NY, charging her with AUO 2nd (Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 2nd), Passed Flashing Red Light, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th, Criminal Possession of a Hyopdermic Instrument, Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th and False Personation.  Wojciechowski was processed and arraigned before Associate Wellsville Village Judge Walsh.  She was committed to the Allegany County Jail on $500.00 cash bail or $1,000.00 property bond.  Wojciechowski is due back in Wellsville Village Court on February 20th at 4:30 p.m. 

Wellsville Police also arrested the passenger of the vehicle, Robert C. Lesniak, age 46 of Buffalo, charging him with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd (Class B Felony), Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th and Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument.  Lesniak was processed and arraigned before Associate Wellsville Village Judge Walsh.  Lesniak was committed to the Allegany County Jail on $5,000.00 cash bail or $10,000.00 property bond.  Lesniak is due back in Wellsville Village Court on February 20th at 4:30 pm.

Wellsville Police arrested Jason A. Gallo, age 36 of Wellsville, and Arthur Isles Jr, age 23 of Wellsville, charging them each with Petit Larceny and Conspiracy 6th.  The charges stem from an incident at Tops Market in Wellsville.  Gallo was additionally charged with a Parole Violation.  Gallo was Isles were processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Judge O’Connor.  Gallo was committed to the Allegany County Jail on $1,500.00 cash bail or $3,000.00 property bond. Isles was committed to the Allegany County Jail on $1,000.00 cash bail or $2,000.00 property bond.  Gallo and Isles are both due back in Wellsville Village Court on February 20th at 4:30 p.m.

Wellsville Police arrested Zachary T. Clark, age 19 of Caneadea, charging him with Possession of Alcohol by a person under 21.  The charges stem from an incident that took place on the Bolivar Road in the Village.  Clark was issued an appearance ticket and released.  Clark is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on February 13th at 4:30pm.

Date: Friday January 26, 2018

Wellsville Police arrested two 13-year-old Wellsville youths, charging them each with Petit Larceny.  The charges stem from an incident that took place on West State Street on January 23rd.  The youths were processed and referred to the Allegany County Probation Department.

Town of Ward road to close temporarily

From: Guy R. James - Superintendent

Date:  January 29, 2018

Re: Road Closure on White Road in the Town of Ward for bridge repair.

Please be advised that starting at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, February 5th, 2018, White Road in the Town of Ward, will be closed to all traffic for approximately two weeks to repair the bridge that is roughly 500 feet south of the intersection of State Route 244. There will not be any on-site detour, and local vehicle traffic is recommended to use alternative routes. Truck Traffic must seek alternative routes that are not posted for weight restriction.  Thank you for your patience and anticipated cooperation with this project!

Pennsylvania State Police offer free Active Shooter Training

ICYMI: A Reminder About Pistol Permit Recertification

To the citizens of Allegany County,
I would like to take a moment to remind you of an important deadline that is fast approaching.  As those of you who are pistol permit holders may already be aware, January 31^st is the date by which many people must submit their pistol permit recertification to the New York State Police.  If you obtained a pistol permit before January 15, 2013, then the 31^st is the last day when you can submit your recertification.  For those of you who obtained a pistol permit after January 15, 2013, then you must recertify by the 5 year anniversary date from when you originally obtained your permit.
I know many people (myself included) are angry about this law, and are skeptical of its ultimate intent, but I must impress upon you the importance of complying with the law and recertifying.  Under the law, your failure to recertify will result in the automatic revocation of your pistol permit and your right to possess your weapons.
However much you may disagree with the SAFE Act and its aims, please do not jeopardize your eligibility to possess a pistol by failing to follow the law.  The State Police are available to answer any questions about the recertification process you may have.
https://firearms.troopers.ny.gov/pprecert/welcome.faces
You can also find information about how to recertify online at https://safeact.ny.gov/.
Sincerely,
Rick Whitney – Allegany County Sheriff

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

Allegany County Sheriff Rick Whitney reports that on January 24, 2018, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Kevin J. Tyler, age 46 of Friendship, on a Violation of Probation Warrant issued by the Town of Amity Court. Tyler was taken into custody at the Allegany County Court Complex, processed, and transported to the Town of Amity Court where he was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.

Nunda man receives prison sentence

From the Livingston County District Attorney:

MELWIN 0. ROSARIO, age 28, of Nunda was sentenced on a conviction of Attempted Assault in the First Degree (C Felony) to 10 years in state prison plus 5 years post-release supervision. He was also ordered to pay a $325 surcharge and a $50 DNA fee. An Order of Protection was issued for the victim.

Law Enforcement Memorial Park: Donations still being accepted

Donations are still being accepted for a permanent memorial in the proposed Law Enforcement Memorial Park, dedicated in May 2015 at the Steuben County Public Safety Building in Bath.
...
Donors will be able to purchase personalized pavers to be placed around a raised pedestal formed by the shape of Allegany, Chemung, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates counties. The pedestal will eventually support a life-size statue of a law officer answering the call to duty.

Other plans include a “thin, blue line” waterfall, tentatively scheduled to be in place this spring.
The memorial park honors all police and peace officers within the seven-county region who have died in the line of duty.
“We are dedicated to remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and creating a place of reflection for their surviving family and friends,” county Sheriff Jim Allard said.
For the past three years, the Steuben Sheriff’s Office has held a memorial service for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice as they strove to serve and protect others.
For more information, call 607-622-3930 or email Terri Moir at moirtl@co.steuben.ny.us.

Obituary: Donald J. Sheridan, 86, Hornell

Hornell - Donald J. Sheridan Sr, 86, a resident of Elderwood in North Hornell, passed away peacefully Saturday (January 27, 2018).
Born in Hornell, March 10, 1931, the son of Michael F. and Thelma (Smith) Sheridan, he was a lifelong area resident. Don was a veteran of the US Navy. He had worked for the Donut Shoppe in Hornell, later for Dominic’s Bakery, and was an all around handyman.
He was predeceased by his parents and several brothers and sisters.
He is survived by his daughters Deborah (Mike) Cone of Hornell, Judy (Larry) Sheridan-Dinger of Canaseraga, his son Donald (Cheryl) Sheridan Jr. of SC, his sister Donna Sheridan of FL, 2 brothers Dave Smith and Dan Smith both of Hornell, 9 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren.
The family will be present 4-7p.m. Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at the Bender - Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo Street in Hornell. A private graveside will be at St Anns Cemetery in Hornell.
To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by director Chester A. Gosper IV.
Friends may make memorial contributions to: Wounded Warriors Project.

Potter County: Latest Edition Of Shale Gas Roundup Now Available

The latest edition of Shale Gas Roundup is now available. It’s the newsletter of the Potter County Natural Resource Center and features timely, locally relevant news about shale gas development and related topics.

To access the latest edition as well as all past editions, visit the website pottercountypa.net (Shale Gas Roundup newsletter icon is found on the cover page). Copies are also available at the Commissioners Office in the Gunzburger Building (first office on right inside Main Street entrance), or by contacting Dawn Wooster at 814-274-8290, extension 207.

Among highlights of the First Quarter 2018 edition:

• Wastewater treatment plant proposed for Coudersport
• Study examines shale gas impact on schools
• Local small-scale electrical plant announced
• Some counties forming gas/oil advocacy organization
• Pa. gas production will increase in 2018
• Potter County in ‘mid-range’ of state’s shale gas field

Potter County: State Still Lags In Paying Share Of DA’s Salary

Potter County Today
Potter County recently received a $12,000 check from the state government, covering another overdue installment of the state’s share of District Attorney’s Andy Watson’s salary. The state still owes Potter County more than $115,600 for the DA’s salary in 2017, as well as $116,544 for the current year.

Act 57 of 2005 obligates the state to pay the 65 percent of a full-time DA’s $179,300 salary. When those payments lag, the county covers the entire cost, a situation that does not sit well with the Potter County Board of Commissioners or their counterparts across the state. According to a spokesman for the Office of Attorney General, the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account does not have enough funds to reimburse the full amount. As the funds continue to accumulate in the account, the state will make a partial payment for the overdue 2017 reimbursement.

Times Herald: Wellsville's Coleman gets the call

By Sam Wilson, Olean Times Herald
After 40 years of Little League umpiring, Ron Coleman got the letter from Williamsport, Pa., he’s been waiting for last month.
Coleman, who started umpiring in his hometown of Wellsville in 1978, has worked four Little League Eastern Regionals at different levels of baseball or softball and twice worked a New York State championship tournament in Wellsville and Lockport, and also works high school games in the area. This July, Coleman plans to fly out to Livermore, Calif., with his wife, Penny, to serve in his first Little League World Series in the Intermediate League Baseball tournament. Little League Baseball and Softball announced its list of 92 volunteer umpires from regions across the globe on Jan. 12 and their assignments to seven different tournaments. Read more from the Times Herald.

2018 Intermediate League (50/70) Baseball World Series (Livermore, Calif.)

(by name – place of residence – region)

·         David Byars – Plant City, Fla. – Southeast

·         Ronald Coleman – Wellsville, N.Y. – East

·         Samuel D. Griffith – Mission Viejo, Calif. – West

·         Jim Hallonquist – Seguin, Texas – Southwest

·         Jeremy Kautza – Waunakee, Wisc. – Central

·         Brian Osbourne – Mannington, W.V. – Southeast

·         Joe Ouellette – Brewer, Maine – East

·         Paul Joseph Schneider – Carmichael, Calif. – West

·         Juan Serrano-Alvarez – San Juan, Puerto Rico – Latin America

·         Brian Stehr – Medicine Hat, Alberta – Canada

·         Andy Stout – Montgomery, Texas – Southwest

·         Fred Tempels – Winnweiler, Germany – Europe and Africa

·         Jeff Wertz – Goshen, Ind. – Central

Allegany County: Career Opportunity – Superintendent of Public Works

Career Opportunity – Superintendent of Public Works

Allegany County is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Superintendent of Public Works pending an anticipated vacancy which is expected the first quarter of FY 2019. The selected candidate will be required to serve as a Deputy Superintendent who is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the current Superintendent of Public Works. Although any future appointment cannot be guaranteed, it is the intent of the Board of Legislators to appoint the selected candidate to a four year term as the Superintendent when the vacancy occurs. The candidate must be a permanent resident of Allegany County within six months of appointment as required by the New York State Public Officers Law.

This is a full‐time position with an annual salary range commensurate with education and work experience. Employment with Allegany County offers excellent benefits including membership in the New York State retirement plan.

Allegany County

Allegany County is located in the Southern Tier of New York State along the Pennsylvania border. We are the 10th least populated county in the state with a 2010 U.S. Census population of 48,946 and the 23rd largest in terms of land size with 1,034 square miles.

Along with a natural beauty highlighted by the Genesee River Valley and the enjoyment of four distinctive seasons, Allegany County is home to 29 towns and 10 villages, four college and university campuses, 22 public school districts and private schools, and major employers like Dresser‐Rand, Alstom and Otis‐Eastern.

Allegany County shares borders with Livingston County to the northeast, Steuben County to the east, Cattaraugus County to the west and Wyoming County to the northwest; and Potter County, PA to the southeast and McKean County, PA to the southwest.

Department of Public Works

The Allegany County Superintendent of Public Works oversees approximately 109 full time and 20 seasonal employees in seven divisions. These include Administration, Buildings & Grounds, Engineering, Highway & Bridges, Parks & Forest, Road Machinery, and Solid Waste. The Department of Public Works has a $17.3M operating budget along with additional Capital accounts. The Department has non‐unit employees along with employees who are members of the PEF (supervisor’s union) and AFSCME unions. The Department of Public Works is responsible for 345 centerline miles of paved road, 123 county bridges, and assists with the construction and maintenance of 181 town owned bridges. The operation and maintenance of 7 solid waste transfer stations, and the maintenance of all county owned buildings and facilities. The Department works closely with many other municipalities.

Superintendent of Public Works Typical Work Activities

Please read the job specification.

Preferred Qualifications

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher in civil engineering or closely related field and four (4) years of full time work experience in the maintenance and construction of highways or bridges, or maintenance of a solid waste operation. Two (2) years of such work experience must have been in a supervisory capacity.

Possession of a valid driver’s license.

Possession of a Professional Engineer’s License issued by the NYS Education Department is preferred but not required.

A thorough knowledge of municipal finances is also preferred.

Applying

Please submit your resume, cover letter, references, and any applicable licenses by Wednesday February 28, 2018 to:

Allegany County Department of Human Resources & Civil Service

7 Court Street, County Office Building

Belmont, NY 14813

Obituary: Linda L. Johnson, 72, Wellsville REVISED

Linda L. Johnson, 72, of Wellsville, NY, died Friday, January 26, 2018 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville.  Born October 10, 1945, in Kane, PA, she was the daughter of John and Ruth Bengtson Buhl.  A graduate of Kane High School, she married Richard C. Johnson, who survives.  Linda enjoyed a full life.  She was an Army wife for 20 years.  This life gave her the opportunity to travel around the country.   She lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Ft. Benning, Georgia (where Dan joined the family), Ft. Rucker, Alabama, Ft. Greely, Alaska (where Amy joined the family) and finally Ft. Campbell Kentucky, living in nearby Clarksville, Tennessee.  After helping her husband serve his career in the service, the family moved back to Kane briefly, and then to Wellsville, NY in 1980.  After moving to Wellsville, she owned and operated Linda’s Hair Fashion for many years.  Linda continued to enjoy traveling.  The family road trip was the annual vacation for many years.  In later years, she and Rich would enjoy traveling together on road trips out west, to Myrtle Beach and taking cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean.  For their 50th wedding anniversary, they took the entire family on a Caribbean cruise.  She also enjoyed activities closer to her home.  She never missed a day of walking her dog, Piper, around the neighborhood.  During the summer, she was often found at Keuka Lake, fishing with Rich or having a glass of wine on the dock.  When not on the go, she could be found at home cooking for her family or knitting.  The love of knitting was passed down from her mother, Ruth, keeping the family well supplied with hats and scarves.  Linda was a member of Grace United Church in Wellsville.  Surviving besides her husband, Richard, are: two children, Dan (Kim) Johnson and Amy (Chad) Hunt, both of Wellsville; and four grandchildren, Luke, Skylar, Jacob and Dakota.   She was predeceased by her parents.   Friends may gather for a celebration of life on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Willing Town Hall.  A private graveside service will be held in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Kane, PA on a later date.   Memorials may be made to Grace United Church or Hart Comfort House.   Arrangements are entrusted to Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Allegany County Legislature: Budget Committee meeting minutes from Jan. 17

BUDGET COMMITTEE

January 17, 2018

NOT APPROVED

Committee Members Present: P. Curran, P. Stockin, J. Burdick, B. Harris, J. Ricci, C. Crandall (Absent: D. Fanton)

Others Present: L. Ballengee, G. Barnes, T. Boyde, D. Decker, K. Graves, D. Healy, K. Hollis, R. Hollis, K. Hooker, J. Hopkins, J. Kelley, C. Knapp, B. Riehle, T. Ross, M. Washer

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 11:02 a.m. by Budget Committee Chairman Phil Curran.

Approval of Minutes

A motion was made by Legislator Stockin, seconded by Legislator Ricci, and carried to approve the Budget Committee minutes of December 20, 2017.

Sales Tax Report

County Treasurer Terri Ross distributed the final 2017 Allegany County Sales Tax Report reflecting receipts totaling $19,754,601.12. The year-to-date figures show an increase of $464,949.59 or 2.410 percent more compared to last year at this time. Ms. Ross stated we are $1 million over the budget figure used for 2017, and we were 2.4 percent higher than 2016 year-end. Ms. Ross stated that we have received our first payment for 2018 totaling $578,130.96, and are up approximately $40,000. Committee Chairman Curran stated it’s a positive note to start the year.

2018 Budget

Ms. Ross distributed a copy of the 2018 Budget detail by cost centers as well as a detailed summary of the County’s mandated and non-mandated programs.

Legislator Decker stated he recently was asked by a constituent if we are receiving gaming revenue from the Seneca Gaming & Entertainment Oil Spring located in Cuba, NY. Ms. Ross stated, no, we were receiving gaming revenue from the State of New York as part of the Governor’s economic development program from different casinos in the region. It was for host and non-host counties within the region; however, the Cuba casino is not considered an Allegany County casino; therefore, we received non-host funds. Chairman Crandall stated the County was part of the exclusivity zone that provided a portion of the revenue to all counties that were within the zone, adding that it was only for larger class casinos, and the Seneca Gaming & Entertainment Oil Spring is not a part of that.

Ms. Ross distributed a completed analysis of the 2018 Budget that shows what programs generated an increase to our Budget. The report shows what was budgeted in both 2017 and 2018 to run these programs as well as the change in net County cost to run these programs in 2018. Ms. Ross discussed what contributed to the $1,455,539 increase to the 2018 Budget, citing different factors to include, an increase of $404,291 to cover programs, the County lost $24,550 in appropriated reserves, as well as $571,159 in other revenue sources.

10-Year Analysis

Ms. Ross stated that in December 1986 we raised the sales tax rate from 3 percent to 4 percent, and in December 2004 we raised the sales tax rate from 4 percent to 4.5 percent. Ms. Ross continued that in the early 2000s, we had experienced changes with our State and Federal Aid and how we had to budget for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) as well as Food Stamps. Ms. Ross went on to list the following major funding sources and the percentage they support the 2018 Budget:

- Tax Levy – 25 percent

- Sales Tax – 16 percent

- State Aid – 12 percent

- Federal Aid – 12 percent

- Miscellaneous Sources – 35 percent

Retirement Bill

Ms. Ross discussed the Retirement Bill stating the $2 million increase over the course of two years contributed to the decline in our financial position during 2003, 2004, and 2005. Ms. Ross stated our last retirement incentive was in February 2012; however, we paid it in one lump sum rather than installments. Legislator Decker asked if the County keeps all hotel tax generated within the County. Ms. Ross stated, yes, that is our tax.

Outstanding Debt

Ms. Ross stated that currently we are down to only having debt on two buildings with maturity dates of 2029 and 2035. Legislator Harris asked if the amounts reflected in the report are principal amount only, and Ms. Ross stated, yes.