Cornell Limits Bonnies In New Year's Eve Setback

ITHACA, N.Y. – Cold shooting and turnovers plagued the St. Bonaventure women's basketball team in a 58-44 setback Monday afternoon at Cornell.
Deja Francis paced the Bonnies with 14 points while Asianae Johnson delivered nine.
Mckenna Maycock neared a double-double, finishing with eight points and seven rebounds. Emily Calabrese hauled in nine rebounds to lead the club on the boards.
"We couldn't make a shot today. We're one of the top 50 three-point shooting teams in the country and nothing fell today," St. Bonaventure head coach Jesse Fleming said. "I thought we were defending pretty well, but we got into foul trouble and then just gave the ball away too much."
The Bonnies led early during a back-and-forth first half.
A spark from the team's freshman guard duo of Francis and Johnson combined for 10 of Bona's 15 first quarter points and a narrow one-point edge after the opening period.
The visitors went cold during the second quarter, however, allowing the Big Red to build a lead it would take to halftime.
St. Bonaventure (3-10) went 2-for-10 from the floor in the second quarter as Cornell pulled ahead by nine. A slashing drive to the lane from Johnson got the Bonnies a bucket before the buzzer, sending the teams to intermission with Cornell owning a 27-20 advantage.
A 26-point third quarter from the Big Red gave the hosts control of the contest.
The struggles from the floor continued for the Bonnies as just two more field goals fell during the third while the Big Red shot 8-of-16 from the floor.
St. Bonaventure limited the Big Red to only five points in the fourth quarter, but could pull no closer than the final margin.
Turnovers also held the Bonnies back from opportunities to rally.
Cornell (6-5) entered the day having forced opponents into an average of 18.7 turnovers per game and caused 30 on Monday which led to 32 points for the Big Red.
The Bonnies, conversely, were well off their season totals in offense - SBU came into Monday ranked second in the Atlantic 10 in both three-point percentage and threes made per game, but were held to 2-of-24 from deep at Cornell.
Non-conference play now complete, the Bonnies open Atlantic 10 action by hosting Duquesne Saturday with the regional rivals slated to tip off inside the Reilly Center at 1 p.m.
"Non-conference wasn't what we wanted it to be, we played a tough schedule and now it is now all about the Atlantic 10," Fleming said. "It's the part of the season where we are now 0-0 and it's time to move into the next portion of the schedule and do the things we need to do to be successful."
- By Scott Eddy, Director of Athletics Communications

Senator O'Mara's weekly column - “Doing roadwork for the future”

O'Mara's district encompasses the following five counties across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions: Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates counties, and a portion of Tompkins County (the city and town of Ithaca, and the towns of Enfield, Newfield and Ulysses).

Over the past several weeks, including in a major speech in New York City, Governor Andrew Cuomo has been spelling out his 2019 legislative agenda and touting priorities for the New Year.
I hope Governor Cuomo doesn’t forget to do his roadwork.
After all, the governor recently unveiled his desire for a new $150-billion infrastructure plan next year. That represents a major commitment of taxpayer dollars and the distribution of these resources must fully recognize the potential return on the investment. For me, that means local roads and bridges, which account for 87% of all roads, more than half of all bridges, and nearly 50% of the vehicle mileage logged in New York State.

Over the past several years, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano and I have joined local highway superintendents and other local officials from across New York State to lead the fight in the Legislature for fairer and greater state support for local transportation infrastructure. Commonly known as the “Local Roads Matter” campaign, this effort has been a growing, bipartisan initiative since 2013. Earlier this year, for example, a bipartisan group of 142 senators and members of the Assembly, nearly 70% of the entire New York State Legislature, joined county and town highway superintendents and work crews, and other local leaders from every corner of the state, to call for support for local roads and bridges.

Beginning in 2013, the state’s recognition of the importance of the Consolidated Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), and parity in statewide transportation aid, has made a significant difference for our local governments, local economies, local property taxpayers, and motorist safety locally and statewide. Therefore, we hope that the governor’s proposal for a major new infrastructure improvement plan – and a new infusion of $150 billion in spending on infrastructure is nothing short of major -- will be highlighted in 2019 by action to once and for all make New York State’s commitment to local roads and bridges the strongest state-level commitment in the nation.

First, the improvement and upkeep of local transportation infrastructure is a wise use of taxpayer dollars. It is a proven, solid investment. Every additional dollar of state support means a dollar less that our local property taxpayers have to pay. It is also an important investment in economic growth and job creation throughout the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, and all across the Empire State.

The 2018-19 budget provided $438 million in base funding for CHIPS. The Legislature also restored a $65-million “Extreme Winter Recovery” allocation. Beginning with the 2013-14 state budget, CHIPS funding has increased by more than $200 million, or upwards of 40%. A new PAVE-NY program also provides additional funding for local roads. A new BRIDGE-NY program is providing aid for local bridge and culvert projects.

Combined, these programs provide significant funding increases for counties, cities, towns, and villages. Regionally, total aid percentage increases from 2013 to this year have ranged from 45% to 55%.

Nevertheless, it’s not nearly enough. It will never begin to address the long-term need: the state comptroller has estimated that repairing locally owned bridges alone throughout New York State will cost upwards of $28 billion.  

Earlier this year, Mike Elmendorf, President and CEO of the Associated General Contractors of New York State, and President of Rebuild NY Now, said, “Despite some recent progress, the level of investment in our infrastructure remains inadequate to meet our growing needs. As a result, our roads are crumbling and our bridges are deteriorating.” He added that “the future of our communities and our economy depends on” greater state investment in local transportation infrastructure.  

We agree. New York State’s commitment to local roads and bridges must become the strongest state-level commitment in America. After all, this commitment is one surefire way to keep moving toward a better state for local property taxpayers, stronger local communities, and sustained economic growth and opportunity.

District Attorneys in 29 NY Counties Awarded Grant Funding - Nothing for Allegany

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced more than $13.5 million in grants has been awarded to 29 district attorneys' offices statewide to continue the enhancement of their investigation of state tax evasion and welfare fraud cases. The grants are made available through the state's Crimes Against Revenue Program, which is supported by proceeds from investigations and subsequent prosecutions that result in tax revenues, fines and restitution being paid to the state.

 

"New York State has zero tolerance for theft of any kind from hardworking men and women and we will continue to do everything in our power to crack down on those who cheat the system," Governor Cuomo said. "This funding will assist prosecutors across the state protect New Yorkers and hold responsible individuals accountable."

The 29 county district attorneys' offices receiving grants announced today have been funded through the Crimes Against Revenue Program since 2016. While only those offices were eligible to apply for funding, they were not guaranteed the same amount they had previously received. The grants align with the calendar year ending in December 2019 with optional renewals for up to two additional years.

 

New York City 

• Bronx: $692,300
• Kings (Brooklyn): $802,600
• New York (Manhattan): $5,000,000
• Queens: $1,491,400
• Richmond (Staten Island): $256,210

 
Long Island

• Nassau County: $633,399
• Suffolk: $1,605,500

 

Mid-Hudson

• Orange: $112,810
• Rockland: $357,600
• Ulster: $143,600
• Westchester: $278,100

 
Capital Region

• Albany: $299,710
• Rensselaer: $102,800
• Saratoga $118,900
• Schenectady: $130,000
• Warren: $59,600
• Washington: $36,200

 

Mohawk Valley

• Montgomery: $28,600
• Oneida: $160,878

 

Central New York

• Cayuga: $80,000
• Madison: $67,000
• Onondaga: $111,110

 
Southern Tier

• Chemung: $64,170
• Steuben: $40,400

 
Finger Lakes

• Ontario: $92,100
• Monroe: $208,000

 
Western New York

• Chautauqua: $65,000
• Erie: $414,100
• Niagara: $68,810

High Wind WARNING issued for Allegany County

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1228 PM EST Mon Dec 31 2018

Wayne-Northern Cayuga-Oswego-Livingston-Ontario-Allegany-
Including the cities of Newark, Fair Haven, Oswego, Geneseo,
Canandaigua, and Wellsville
1228 PM EST Mon Dec 31 2018

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 10 AM EST TUESDAY...

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a High Wind Warning, which is in effect from 2 AM to 10 AM EST Tuesday. This upgrades the High Wind Watch which was previously in effect.

* LOCATIONS...Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Oswego, Livingston,
  Ontario, and Allegany counties.

* TIMING...From overnight tonight through late Tuesday morning.

* WINDS...West 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.

* IMPACTS...Strong wind gusts will bring down trees and power lines and result in scattered power outages. Minor property
damage is also possible, especially to roofs and siding. Travel in high profile vehicles will be very difficult at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

High winds of 58 mph or greater will make driving difficult and could result in property damage, including downed trees and power lines. Scattered power outages are expected. Home owners should
secure loose objects.

Steuben County Sheriff's Blotter

Media Release: December 31, 2018

DWI, DWAI-Drug Arrests

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on December 29, 2018, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested Geoffrey V. Martin, age 39, of Rochester, New York following a traffic stop on Cleveland Avenue in the Town of Hornellsville, New York. It is alleged that Mr. Martin operated a motor vehicle while in an intoxicated condition. Mr. Martin was charged with Driving while intoxicated, Driving with a .08% or more blood alcohol content, failure to use designated lane, no turning signal and refusal to submit to a pre-breath screening test. Mr. Martin was released on traffic summons to appear in Hornellsville Town Court on a later date.

On December 30, 2018 deputies arrested Drew A. Brady, age 31, of Hornell, New York, following a traffic stop on State Route 36 in Hornellsville, New York. It is alleged that Mr. Brady operated a motor vehicle while his ability was impaired due to drug use. Mr. Brady was charged with Driving While Ability is Impaired by Drugs, failing to keep right, improper right turn and unlawful possession of marijuana. Mr. Brady was released on traffic summons to appear in Hornellsville Town Court on a later date.

North Carolina man charged with making threat against Cuba-Rushford school

Press Release

 

On Sunday, December 30th, at approximately 10:00 p.m., Cuba Police arrested Phillip C. Dick, 34, of Sanford, North Carolina. Dick was charged with Making a Terroristic Threat (Felony) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Misdemeanor). He was processed and arraigned by Cuba Town Justice Tuttle who Dick sent to the Allegany County Jail on $1500 cash bail/$3000 bond. These charges stem from an investigation in September in which Phillip Dick allegedly made a threat to the Cuba-Rushford School District. Phillip Dick is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Wellsville American Legion Aux. planning breakfast buffet Jan. 6th

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Saturday December 29, 2018

Wellsville Police arrested Rohan T. Tinson, age 40 of Erie, PA, charging him with AUO 3rd (Aggravated Unlicensed Operation) and No/Inadequate Plate Lamps.  The charges stem from a traffic stop on North Brooklyn Avenue in the Village of Wellsville.  Tinson was issued traffic citations and released.  Tinson is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on January 22nd at 4:30 p.m.

Date: Friday December 28, 2018

Wellsville Police arrested two 14 year old youths, from Wellsville and Friendship, following incidents that took place on Hill Street and Crescent Drive in the Village of Wellsville.  The youths were located on South Broad Street and taken into custody.  The 14-year-old Friendship youth was charged with Menacing 2nd, Resisting Arrest and Possession of Alcohol by a person under 21 years of age.  The Wellsville youth was charged with two counts of Criminal Mischief 4th and Resisting Arrest.  The youths were petitioned to the Allegany County Probation department for further action.

New Year's Day: High Wind WATCH posted for Allegany County - a severe weather event

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1245 PM EST Sun Dec 30 2018

Wayne-Northern Cayuga-Livingston-Ontario-Allegany-Cattaraugus
Including the cities of Newark, Fair Haven, Geneseo, Canandaigua,
and Wellsville
1245 PM EST Sun Dec 30 2018

...HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE MONDAY NIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING...

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a High Wind
Watch, which is in effect from late Monday night through Tuesday
morning.

* LOCATIONS...Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Livingston, Ontario, and Allegany counties.

* TIMING...From overnight Monday night through late Tuesday morning.

* WINDS...West 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 55 to 60 mph.

* IMPACTS...Strong wind gusts may bring down trees and power lines and result in scattered power outages. Minor property damage is also possible, especially to roofs and siding. Travel in high profile vehicles will be very difficult at times.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Strong winds of 58 mph or greater could produce property damage, including downed trees and power lines that could result in power outages. Home owners should secure personal property.

NY State Police Blotter

12/29/18 2pm- State police arrested Justin W. Conklin, 25, of Alfred following an incident Friday in Friendship. Troopers charged him with criminal contempt for allegedly violating an order of protection. 12/30/18 3:24am- During a traffic stop on State Route 248 in Willing, state police arrested Richard A. LaJoie, 50, of Wellsville. He was charged with driving while intoxicated and BAC above .08 of 1%. Court action is pending.
12/29/18 7:27pm- State police investigated a one vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 243 and State Route 98 in the town of freedom. Troopers listed the driver as Kathy L. Arnold, 58, of Caneadea. There were no injuries.
12/29/18 10:20am- During a vehicle stop on State Route 20A in Perry, state police arrested Duana K. Miller, 53, of Warsaw. He was charged with felony driving while ability impaired by drugs or alcohol, misdemeanor counts of reckless driving and infractions to include failure to keep right, stopping on a highway and driving while using a portable electronic device. He was detained on cash bail.

Independence Police Blotter

Independence Police Blotter
 
Independence Police arrested Peter W Simms, age 33 of Wellsville, charging him with DWI, operating with BAC greater than .08 of 1%, speed not reasonable & prudent and move from a lane unsafely. The charges stem from a one car motor vehicle accident that took place at the intersection of County Road 22 & 22A in the Town of Independence. Simms was issued an appearance ticket and released to a third party. Simms is due to appear in Town of Independence Court on January 16th at 3:30 p.m.

St. Bonaventure Falls At Syracuse

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – A slow start, turnovers and hot shooting by the home team led to an 81-47 loss for St. Bonaventure to Syracuse on Saturday afternoon at the Carrier Dome.

A ranked team in the preseason, Syracuse showed why early on Saturday, scoring 17 of the first 19 points of the day to grab control. Despite foul troubles for leading scorer Courtney Stockard, the Bonnies climbed back. It was 22-8 when they went on a 7-2 run to pull within nine points at 24-15. Jalen Poyser capped the spurt with a three-pointer. 
With Stockard on the bench after picking up his third foul, the Bonnies saw Syracuse continue its hot shooting and extend its lead. Marek Dolezaj's three-pointer with 1:00 left until halftime gave the Orange their largest lead at 46-23.

In the first half, the Orange made 57 percent of their shots (15-26) from the field. The Bonnies also were just 6-11 at the free throw line in the opening half while Syracuse went 13-15. In addition, the Orange scored 20 of their points as a result of 14 Bonnies turnovers.  Stockard played only five minutes in the first half due to foul trouble. He had two fouls in the first six minutes and was called for his third at the 12:36 mark.

Early in the second half, the Bonnies fell behind by 31 points. They were not able to rally, ending the game with 25 turnovers. Syracuse shot 58 percent from the field on the day.
Freshman point guard Kyle Lofton led St. Bonaventure with 12 points while Poyser had 11. Junior forward Melkisedek Moreaux finished with seven points, the first of his Bonnies career. Osun Osunniyi had four points, seven rebounds and three blocked shots.
Game Notes

• The Bonnies completed non-conference play at 4-9.
• Moreaux saw the most extensive playing time of his season with 20 minutes in only his second game.
• St. Bonaventure out-rebounded the Orange 31-29. 
• Stockard failed to reach double figure points for the first time in his seven games this season.
• Osunniyi now has recorded at least two blocks in 10 games this year; he has 34 for the season.

Up Next: St. Bonaventure will open Atlantic 10 Conference play on the road at George Mason next Sunday, Jan. 6. Tip-off will be at 4:00 on NBC Sports Network.
- By Steve Mest, Associate Director of Athletics

NY State Police Blotter

12/28/18 10pm- During a traffic stop on first Street in the village of Bolivar, state police arrested Sarah E. Cronin, 35, of Bolivar. She was charged with driving while intoxicated, BAC above .08% and two traffic infractions.
12/28/18 11;57pm- During a traffic stop on State Route 19 in Amity, state police arrested Christopher J. Chamberlain, 39, of Angelica. He was charged with felony 1st degree aggravated unlicensed operation and driving while intoxicated. He was detained for court action.

Steuben County Sheriff media release

Media Release: December 28, 2018

Missing Juveniles, Grand Larceny, Burglary, Fleeing, Criminal Mischief and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle Incident

Steuben County Sheriff Jim Allard reports that on December 25, 2018, deputies of the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of two missing juveniles from a non-secure detention facility in Steuben County. Deputies received information of a possible location that the juveniles were attempting to reach, and while traveling to check that location, observed a vehicle operating erratically on County Route 11, Bath, New York. Deputies attempted to stop this vehicle. The vehicle momentarily stopped on County Route 11 and one person exited the passenger side as the vehicle left the scene. The passenger was taken into custody. Deputies again attempted to stop the vehicle which continued on County Route 11 until it collided with a guard rail. The operator of the vehicle left the vehicle and was apprehended soon after. The vehicle was damaged due to the crash and subsequent fire. The investigation revealed that the operator and passenger were the missing juveniles, and that they allegedly stole the vehicle from a residence in Bath, New York. Both juveniles were taken to Steuben County Family Court for juvenile proceedings.

Allegany County Department of Social Services Monthly Report

Allegany County Office for the Aging Monthly Report

Allegany County Health Department Monthly Report

New Year Celebration for Celebrate Recovery | Celebrate Victory at Scio

A Scio church will celebrate its second year of ministry Saturday, January 5, in providing support for those struggling with all types of hurts, hangups, habits and destructive behaviors, many that may have occurred years ago.

Knights Creek Church at 2987 Knights Creek Road (County Road 9) will host an open house and personal testimony by an individual who found peace through support received through the Christ-centered Celebrate Recovery | Celebrate Victory ministry.  It will include an orientation for potential participants, along with family members and friends who would like to come alongside effectively someone who is struggling with one or more life issues.

Free weekly sessions are held year-around from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays, with refreshments at 6:45 p.m.

This support ministry started over 25 years ago at Saddleback Church in California, pastored by Rick Warren, author of the long-time best-selling book, Purpose Driven Life. It uses a 12 Steps and 8 Principles approach that provides an opportunity for healing from what may reflect a lifetime of personal struggles. All adults are welcome to attend because Celebrate Recovery is for everyone.  The church also is in the process of providing The Landing, a parallel Celebrate Recovery ministry for teens who are struggling with various types of life issues.

Celebrate Recovery is part of the church's more expansive Celebrate Victory umbrella for additional supports for individuals experiencing all types of struggles.

Circumstances that often are addressed include, but are not limited to, anger, depression, isolation, workaholism, grief due to the death of a loved one, including miscarriages, still births and prior abortions, separation or divorce, other types of losses, prodigal children, childhood or current physical, mental/emotional or spiritual abuse, substance abuse, sexual addiction, gambling, food addiction, and more.

There currently are four additional Celebrate Recovery groups in Allegany County, the most per population of any county in New York State, including men's and women's groups for inmates only at Allegany County Jail.

Organizers note, however, that they continue to seek churches or a coalition of churches in other communities in the county to offer the ministry due to some attendees being unable to participate due to transportation issues or seeking more than one meeting per week in their areas.

Weekly lessons are sequential,  but individuals are not required to attend every session, can join groups at any time and, due to each unit having its own schedule of lessons and testimonies, attend more than one session a week if needed.

Meetings, which include vibrant music, alternating weeks of lessons and personal testimonies, information on additional resources that may be able to assist participants in their current circumstances, and gender-specific support groups, are held year-around at:

      -- Houghton Wesleyan Church, a new group at 9712 State Route 19, across from the Houghton College campus, contact catmo57@hotmail.com or (585) 567-8162, and Yorks Corners Mennonite Church, 3350 Country Road 29, Wellsville, contact gene@yorkscorners.org or (585) 593-3287.  Both meet at 7 p.m. Thursdays, with York Corners also having an individual Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CelebrateRecoveryYorksCorners.

      -- Knights Creek Church, 2987 Knights Creek Road (County Road 9), Scio, meeting at 7 p.m. Saturdays with an individual Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KnightsCreekChurch. Knights Creek also is developing a parallel Celebrate Recovery initiative, known as The Landing, for teens who are struggling with various adverse behaviors.

      -- Representatives of both groups facilitate gender-specific Celebrate Recovery gatherings for both male and female inmates only on Tuesday nights at Allegany County Jail. Family members and friends are encouraged to let inmates know about these Celebrate Recovery Inside opportunities while they learn through one of the outside groups how to better assist prisoners when they are released.

Information on Celebrate Recovery at Knights Creek and the jail is available from Casey Jones at bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503.

A new Facebook page also has been created at Celebrate Recovery - Allegany County that highlights information about each of the weekly group meetings, along with a web page providing descriptive updates being hosted on the Partners for Prevention in Allegany County website at  https://ppaccentral.org/celebrate-recovery.

Obituary: Patricia Anne Reed, 82, formerly of Wellsville

Patricia Anne Reed, 82, a former resident of Wellsville, New York passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 23, 2018 in Sparks Nevada. She was born September 8, 1936 in Wellsville, New York the daughter of John C. and Frances Piney Mesler Jr. She was married to Roy Lamb for two years and later to Milford Reed for a few years.

Patricia has resided in the Reno, NV area for the past four years with and near her son Perry and his wife. She had formerly resided in Alma, Wellsville, Olean, and Bolivar, NY, Smethport and Port Allegany, PA and Casper, WY. She attended grade school in Alma and graduated Wellsville High School in 1955. She was employed at Weston's Shopper City, Olean Tile, the Jaguar Plant in Smethport, as well as numerous jobs in the Casper, WY area.

She was an avid member of the Baptist church. She enjoyed spending time with her children grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed motorcycles with her son. Her true passion was her teddy bear collection which was stunning.

She is survived by her six children son Perry (Sue) Mesler of Reno NV, daughters, Tammy Edwards of Schenectady NY,  Sherri (Wally) Wasik of McDonald PA, Diane Reed of Sturgeon PA, son, John (Karen) Reed of Port Allegany, PA and daughter Suzanne (Mike) Zimmerman of Newtown CT, 15 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, two brothers Norm Mesler of Wellsville and Gary (Diane) Chandler of Casper WY, sister Shirley Green of Wellsville as well as 14 nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father John C Mesler Jr. and her mother Frances Pinney Gale Chandler, a brother-in-law Boyd Green Sr. and a nephew Jeff Green.

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, January 2, 2018 from 2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM at the J. W. Embser Sons Funeral Home Inc. in Wellsville. The funeral will be Thursday, January 3 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Reverend William Matthews presiding. She will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Hart Comfort House, 141 E. State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Online reports: Wellsville Kmart to close in March

CNBC:
The department store operator told employees Thursday that it plans to shut another round of Kmart and Sears stores next year, in addition to those that are already in the process of going dark. When Sears filed for bankruptcy on Oct. 15, it was still operating a little under 700 stores. At that time, the company said it would close 142 unprofitable stores. In November, it announced the closure of 40 additional stores.
Sears told workers this week that it expects to begin liquidation sales at the 80 stores (addresses listed below) in two weeks.

Kmart, 1020 Center Street Grand Central Plaza, Horseheads, NY
Kmart, 121 Bolivar Road, Wellsville, NY

Obituary: Melvin "Mel" B. Francis, 74, formerly of Rushford

Rushford - Melvin “Mel” B. Francis a former resident of Rushford died suddenly on Sunday December 23, 2018 in Mary Black Hospital, Spartanburg, SC. He was born on July 23, 1944 in Rushford, a son of the late Norman and Marjorie Baker Francis.

Mel served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam, where he earned a purple heart and a bronze star. He was last employed in heavy towing equipment sales. He was an avid golfer.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Elaine, are their sons, Matthew Francis of Lakeland, FL and Christopher Francis of Winter Haven, FL, a brother, Laverne “Turk” (Nancy) Francis of Batavia and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by three brothers, Norman Francis, Herb Francis and Walter Francis.

There will be no visitation or services. Burial will be in White Cemetery Rushford.

Memorial if desired to: Veteran Scholarships Forever, PO Box 4008, Greenville, SC 29608.

Allegany County Sheriff needs another E-911 Dispatcher

Allegany County 911 Report - December 2018

Allegany County Sheriff's Report - December 2018

Allegany County District Attorney December 2018 Report

NY State Police Blotter

12/27/18 5:29am- Three people were injured when two vehicles collided head-on on State Route 243 and Brookside Road in Rushford. Scanner reports indicated there were serious injuries and entrapment. Medical helicopters were requested, but were grounded. Troopers identified the drivers as Bryan A. Sears, 30, of Centerville and Jonas L. Perry, 29, of Cuba. The injured were transported to Olean General.

Flu cases on the rise in New York

View the Latest Data on the New York State Flu Tracker Here

 

 

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that over the past week, cases of influenza in New York State rose by 72 percent, and new cases of influenza were reported in 58 out of 62 counties. In addition, the number of patients hospitalized with laboratory- confirmed influenza was 363, a 41 percent increase from last week. The Governor also urged all New Yorkers six months of age and over who have not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

 

"With an increase in flu cases in every corner of this state, I want to remind New Yorkers who have not been vaccinated against the flu that it is not too late to take this critical action," Governor Cuomo said. "Flu season is in full-swing, and as the number of cases and hospitalizations continue to rise, we must do everything we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones."

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on December 27, 2018, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Donald B. Bickford, age 37 of Friendship, on a Violation of Probation Warrant issued by the Town of Friendship Court. Bickford was processed and arraigned in the Town of Friendship Court where he was remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $10,000.00 cash or $20,000.00 bond and scheduled to reappear in the Town of Friendship Court on February 5, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. for additional court action.

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on December 22, 2018, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Sonya M. Bleau, age 30 of Wellsville, on a Violation of Probation Warrant issued by the Town of Scio Court. Bleau was processed and transported to the Town of Scio Court where she was arraigned and remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $5,000.00 cash or $10,000.00 bond. Bleau is scheduled to reappear in the Town of Scio Court on January 22, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. for additional court action.

Steuben reports top events in 2018

BATH - Implementation of the state’s complex Raise The Age (RTA) legislation tops the list of Steuben County events during 2018. Other notable events in 2018 included opening the long-awaited County Office Building Annex, the September rain storm and road damage, and significant strides in public health.

• • Raise The Age legislation The county Legislature approved their annual budget in November with $1.5 million in estimated costs to carry out the first phase of RTA, which will prevent children 16 years of age from being jailed with adults. The state has pledged to reimburse for all such costs, providing the county remains compliant each year with the property tax cap. In October 2019, 17-year-olds will be covered by the law. What complicates the issue for Steuben and many counties is the need to provide a remedial response to teens whose actions pose a threat to the community, their loved ones and themselves. The cost to the county of transporting the troubled teens to the nearest available detention facilities in Albany or Rochester would be steep and impose a hardship county operations and staffing and on families, according to county Manager Jack Wheeler. More central locations for a facility are being considered by Steuben and nearby counties but no site has been selected.
• • The Annex Long seen as an answer to crowded conditions at the County Office Building, and due to increasing demands by the state court system, the three-story Annex opened Oct. 11. The Annex, located on East Morris Street now houses the county Board of Elections offices and electronic voting machines, and a current records storage area on the first floor. Cornell Cooperative Extension Steuben County, a demonstration kitchen and multi-purpose conference center are located on the second floor with the third floor vacant to allow for expansion as needed. Construction of the annex and a long-term records storage facility on Mount Washington overseen by the county Legislature’s special Space Committee, with the $8.7 million cost paid for through a low-interest bond and county reserves.

• • September Storm County roads were closed after an unexpectedly severe thunderstorm dropped 2-4 inches of rain in an hour around 8 p.m. in the southern regions of the county. The sheer power of the falling rain, which raged over river banks to cross roadways and fields, carved roads into rubble, downed trees and flattened homes. County Road 127 in the Town of Woodhull and CR 85 in the town of Tuscarora sustained the most damage, with the Woodhull to Osceola, Pa. route opened to local traffic within a couple of days. Repair work on CR 85 took more than a month to complete. The $189,000 cost of repairs did not rise to the level required for assistance by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and was paid for by changing the county Public Works’ fall road work schedule.
• • Public Health The Steuben Public Health Department celebrated its 100th Anniversary of serving residents and set into motion two major steps toward improving services in the future:

➢ The department took on an active role in the county’s energetic campaign to stem substance abuse through an Opioid Overdose Program in 2018 which allows its nurses to train the community and other service providers on how to recognize and respond to opioid overdoses and give Naloxone (Narcan). In response to county coroners’ request for training, Public Health’s first training will be held in January.

➢ Public Health also completed the next step towards national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board through a site visit from board reviewers. The reviewers met with Steuben legislators, community partners, and Public Health employees. Public Health expects to be awarded national accreditation status in 2019.

Wellsville: Town Board schedules special 'behind closed door' meeting

The Town of Wellsville will be holding a Special Meeting on Friday, December 28, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Clerk's office to discuss a real property issue. The town board will go into executive session (private session) to discuss this issue and no public action is planned at this time.

The Town of Wellsville will hold it's Organizational Meeting at it's Regular Board meeting held on January 9, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

Causer to Host Veterans Service Representative

BRADFORD – In an effort to ensure area veterans receive the services and support they need, Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) is hosting Melissa Davis, a veterans service representative from the American Legion, at his local offices in January. 

The schedule is as follows:

• Coudersport: Thursday, Jan. 3, from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Coudersport office is located at 107 S. Main St. Please call 814-274-9769 to schedule an appointment.
• Bradford: Monday, Jan. 14, from 1-4 p.m. The Bradford office is located at 78 Main St., first floor. Please call 814-362-4400 to schedule an appointment.

Outreach hours are also being held in Kane; however, all of the appointments are booked. Veterans in the Kane area who are in need of assistance should contact the office at 814-837-0880 to schedule an appointment on a later date. Davis is typically at the Kane office on the first Monday of each month.

 

Davis will offer veterans assistance with issues such as compensation, education, pension, health care and death benefits. Veterans need not be a member of the American Legion to participate.

Potter County Gearing Up For Census; Jobs Available

With the U.S. Census Bureau moving closer to launching its 2020 count, the agency is beginning to add staff all across the country. Census liaisons for Potter County are Commissioner Paul Heimel and Will Hunt and Deb Ostrom from the Planning Department. They report that there will be part-time job opportunities to conduct field work and door-to-door assessments. Anyone interested in potential employment as a manager, crew leader, clerk, census representative or field agent can find information as well as apply for positions online at census.gov. More information is also by calling toll-free 1-855-562-2020.
As the county’s population continues to fall, local officials say it is important that everyone complete the census survey when it is received. Census numbers have a direct effect on grants as well as government representation. Data are used to distribute more than 50 programs, including support for education, transportation, health and human services, housing, criminal justice, employment services, farming and environmental protection. For each uncounted citizen, a county will lose an estimated $10,000 in federal benefits during the decade.

“Our county’s population began falling from a modern-day high in 2002 and the mid-term census reports confirm additional declines,” said the local liaisons. “The economic impact of an undercount in 2020 would hit us even harder. The best we can do is to try to cut our losses by getting everyone counted. Residents need to realize that there’s no ulterior motive or hidden agenda by the federal government. By law, the census is just a population count and demographic analysis.”

The Planning Department is working with township and borough officials to support an accurate result from the census. Planning staff has also drawn in the county Emergency Management and Assessment offices to identify new homes and verify mailing addresses. Questionnaires have been reduced from 10 pages to 10 questions. Forms will be mailed to area residents in early 2020. Census-takers’ non-response follow-ups begin in May 2020.

Potter County Veterans Affairs Director Retires

Potter County Director of Veterans Affairs Bill Simpson has retired from service. Simpson said he intends to spend more time with his family and pursue his many hobbies. He will also continue to serve military veterans through his affiliation with American Legion Post 530 in Shinglehouse. During his service to Potter County, he helped hundreds of veterans as both an advocate and a liaison with agencies that provide benefits and services. He also was engaged with multiple special projects, notably the Potter County Veterans Gravestone Restoration Project and the visit of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall.
A resident of Oswayo Borough and a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Simpson served with the U.S Navy for more than 23 years. He retired after 30-plus years as a communications technician with Frontier Communications and joined the county in 2016, succeeding Will Worthington. Simpson earned certification as a veterans service officer from the Pa. Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs. Potter County Office of Veterans Affairs is located in the Gunzburger Building. For more information, call Mike Pepper at 814-274-8290, extension 210.
Potter County Today

NY State Police Blotter

12/26/18 3:01pm- Two more arrests were made in connection to a domestic dispute in Centerville on December 4th. Taken into custody were Renee Horn, 43, of Delevan and Alisa Golmoka, 20, of Delevan. Each was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. They'll appear in court at a later date.

Press Release: Schuyler County Attorney: New York enacts Bill of Rights for Sexual Assault Survivors

Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman wants all survivors of rape and sexual assault to know about New York State’s new “sexual assault survivors' bill of rights.”

 

“This new law will require state government to establish a bill of rights for purposes of informing survivors of their rights under the law,” Getman said.

 

According to Getman, the bill of rights will include the victims’ right to:

• Consult with a rape crisis or victim assistance organization;
• Appropriate health care services at no cost;
• Receive updates on their sexual offense evidence kit and the status of their case; and
• Be notified before sexual assault evidence kits are destroyed.

 

Under the law, Getman explained, all law enforcement agencies must adopt policies to help communicate with survivors and enable a survivor to request information on their sexual offense evidence kit from the police agency or prosecutorial agency with jurisdiction over the crime.

 

“Advising victims of their legal rights will help ensure they can navigate complicated medical and criminal justice systems and receive necessary assistance and treatment,” Getman said.

 

The measure was signed into law Friday (December 21) and is scheduled to take effect in June 2019.

 

The complete text of the new law can be found here: https://nyassembly.gov/leg/?term=2017&bn=A08401

 

The Schuyler County Attorney is the legal advisor to the county legislature and other county officers, including the Sheriff, the District Attorney and the Department of Social Services.  The County Attorney prosecutes and defends civil actions and serves as the primary prosecutorial agency for cases presented in Schuyler County Family Court.