ACCORD Community Action Angels Holiday Gift Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Allegany County residents can help provide a Merry Christmas to children in need by donating to ACCORD’s Community Action Angels Holiday Gift Program this season.   

Program volunteers and staff are currently seeking donors to sponsor a young child’s wish list or to donate gift cards for children 13-18 years of age. The program also accepts donations of unwrapped, new toys and new clothing for girls and boys of all ages.

 

Gifts will be distributed to Allegany County children in need December 13-14, 2019.

 

Families in need may apply in person at the ACCESS Center, 84 Schuyler Street, Belmont, NY. Families are asked to bring a copy of their current household income and proof of age for all children applying.

 

To make a donation or to inquire about the program, email Melissa Payne at mpayne@accordcorp.org or call (585) 268-7605 ext. 1401. Monetary donations or gift card donations can be mailed to ACCORD, Community Action Angels Gift Program, Attn: Jill Petersen, PO Box 573, Belmont, NY 14813.

Website issue impairs posts

Often, we include photos of newsmakers in our stories. That option halted early today when the site we use to fuel Wellsville Regional News developed problems. Until it is corrected, we cannot post photos of documents or PDF files we convert to photos. Yep, it's a pain. Yes, it does impact the site. Be patient (I sure as Hell am not).

Town of Angelica sets public hearing on solar energy systems

Notice is given that a public hearing will be held before the Town Board of the Town of Angelica at the Grange Building Meeting Room, 59 Park Circle in the Town of Angelica, New York, at 6:15 p.m. on the 12th day of November, 2019, concerning proposed Local Law Number 2 of 2019, entitled "Town of Angelica Solar Energy Systems and Facilities Local Law." The purpose of the proposed local law is to allow the Town to regulate and control the construction and establishment of solar energy systems and facilities in the Town. A copy of the proposed local law is available for inspection at the office of the Town Clerk. This local law sets forth the Authority for the Local Law, contains a Statement of Purpose, Definitions, states the Applicability of the Local Law, Establishes General Requirements, creates standards for issuing permits for solar energy systems and facilities, establishes safety standards, creates Permit Time Frame and Abandonment standards, authorizes enforcement of the Local Law, and defines severability of the various provisions of the Local Law. At such time and place all persons interested in the subject matter of the proposed local law will be heard concerning the same.

GRAND JURY INDICTS FORMER SCHOOL ATHLETIC TRAINER ON MULTIPLE CHARGES INCLUDING ENTICING A MINOR AND PRODUCTIONOF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a five-count indictment charging Austin Pratt, 30, of Conesus, NY, with enticement of a minor, production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, and transfer of obscene matter to a minor. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a$250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on January 12, 2019, the New York State Police were notified by the parents of a teenaged minor girl (the victim) that they found a large amount of text messages on their daughter’s phone from her school athletic trainer, the defendant.

During an interview with the victim, she told investigators that in November 2018, Pratt began texting her. Simple texts regarding an injury the victim suffered led to nude photographs being exchanged between the two using Instagram.

Some of the text messages between the defendant and the victim included:

·        “I seriously cannot stop thinking about you or wanting you. This is crazy to me for only knowing you for a few weeks and I'm not sure how to navigate these feelings as I'm obviously married and our age difference which plays a huge role in all this. I love talking to you and being around you and all I want is to be with you. I hate the fact that I am 16 years older than you and that we have to hide and be sneaky.”

·        “Nothing would happen to you lol. My life would be ruined.” The victim responded, “You get divorce papers and 20 years in jail.” Pratt responded, “Yuppppp... gotta be super sneaky.”

Subsequently, according to the complaint, Pratt and the victim engaged in sexual intercourse on January 7, 2019, at the victim’s home.

Pratt was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan W. Feldman and was released on conditions.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton, the Rochester Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert, and the Livingston County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Gregory J. McCaffrey.

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES THE START OF NY STATE OF HEALTH’S 2020 OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that on November 1, NY State of Health - New York State's Health Plan Marketplace and a national leader in enrolling people into quality, affordable health coverage - will begin its seventh annual open enrollment period for New Yorkers who want quality, low-cost health insurance coverage in 2020.

 

"New York is proud to be a national leader in providing access to health care to state residents through a robust and vibrant marketplace," Governor Cuomo said. "Despite continued aggressive threats at the federal level to dismantle the Affordable Care Act and block access to health care, we continue to move forward.  We believe health care is a right, not a luxury, and we will continue our efforts to provide New Yorkers with quality, affordable health coverage."

 

In New York, the number of uninsured has been reduced by 1.2 million since 2010, including one million since the NY State of Health Marketplace opened in 2013. More than 4.8 million people are currently enrolled in coverage through NY State of Health. 

 

Open Enrollment for Qualified Health Plans begins November 1, 2019 and will continue through January 31, 2020. New enrollees can apply for coverage starting on November 1, 2019. Current enrollees may begin renewing coverage on November 16. The Marketplace offers a choice of health plans across all Marketplace programs in every county of the state, with free in-person assistance available to help consumers shop for and enroll in the best coverage for themselves and their families.

 

 There will be no cost increase for nearly all Marketplace enrollees in 2020, including those in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan and Qualified Health Plans who receive tax credits. Consumers who receive premium tax credits will see no change, or in some cases a small decrease, in the cost of coverage compared to 2019. 

 

Consumers must enroll or renew by December 15, for coverage effective January 1, 2020.  Enrollment in the Essential Plan, Medicaid and Child Health Plus is open all year.

 

Consumers can review their health plan options and estimate their 2020 costs online, by phone, or with the help of an in-person assistor. NY State of Health has added a new out-of-pocket cost estimator tool to the website to help consumers with their plan shopping which allows them to compare premiums as well as estimate out-of-pocket costs for the various Qualified Health Plans available.

Mitrano applauds House vote on impeachment inquiry, criticizes Reed’s vote against

Mitrano applauds House vote on impeachment inquiry, criticizes Reed’s vote against

Tracy Mitrano, Democratic candidate for Congress (NY-23rd), applauds the House of Representatives for voting in favor of the ongoing impeachment inquiry.

 "If I were in Congress today I would solemnly—not boastfully, not lightly, not impulsively—vote to establish clear, transparent rules to guide the public inquiry into impeachment.

“My vote would be based on the President’s actions. By his own admission, President Trump not only withheld aid to Ukraine and asked them to investigate his political rival, he also clearly tied that aid to the investigation. Whether that is the exact definition of a quid pro quo or not, this is a dangerous precedent to set.

“I wouldn’t be comfortable with any party’s leadership using our foreign aid to score domestic political points. No one is above the law, and the President must be held accountable in a full public inquiry."

Mitrano has a sharp response to GOP incumbent Tom Reed’s vote against the impeachment inquiry. Reed said he hasn’t seen “the smoking gun evidence that warrants an impeachment-level event.”

 “As Reed's bipartisan facade crumbles under the weight of the House vote, it is important to remember three key points:

“One: With respect to the substance of this inquiry, the President offered it up himself in the original memo of the call compiled by White House staff.

“Two: A ‘smoking gun,’ as Reed and his GOP colleagues like to imply, is not a test.  The federal decision last week that legitimized this inquiry speaks for itself.

“Finally, the partisan divide in this country obscures a simple statistical fact: More than 50 percent of unaffiliated voters in this country support the inquiry. It is not merely a construction of ‘the left.’”

Obituary: Peter Michael Anthony, 62, of Ulysses, PA

Peter Michael Anthony, 62, of Ulysses, PA, died Tuesday, October 29, 2019 in his home.  Born August 21, 1957, in Allentown, he was the son of Earl William and Margaret J. Lakavage Anthony.  He was employed in the Kansas oil fields and by Patterson Lumber in Galeton.  He is survived by his mother and step-father, Margaret J. Anthony and Carl L. Bauer.  He was predeceased by his father.  Burial will be in Slatedale Cemetery.  Arrangements are entrusted to Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfuneralhome.com.

Early voting appears to be a success in Allegany County

Earlier this year, New York State authorized early voting. In Allegany County, it was launched October 26th and will continue until 2 p.m. Sunday. According to officials at the Allegany County Board of Elections, as of the end of business Wednesday, 146 residents have taken advantage of early voting. According to one county elections worker, that number "far exceeds expectations."
Here is the breakdown of voters since early voting was allowed in Allegany County:
Saturday: 26
Sunday: 15
Monday: 44
Tuesday: 32
Wednesday: 29
Several voters told elections workers they "love it." They noted they would be out of the area for the General Election and early voting was 'beneficial.'
Absentee ballots will be accepted as long as they are postmarked by November 4th. The final election results will not be certified until November 19th. 

Town of Wellsville seeks Data Collector

Data Collector
Reports To
 
The Data Collector will report to Assessor based in Wellsville, NY.

Job Overview

The Data Collector will be responsible for gathering real property data from all real property during inspections, revaluations, and closing of building permits.  The Data Collector will be responsible for mailing, collecting, and maintaining all exemption applications and correspondence with applicants.  The Data Collector will be required to interact with the public, assist and answer basic Assessor questions via phone and public walk-ins.  The Data collector will be responsible for daily office work directed at them from the Assessor.

Qualifications

These are some but not all required qualifications

·         High School Diploma or equivalent.

·         Customer service experience.
·         Ability to read a tape measure.
·         Ability to use a ruler and draw real property dimension on grid paper.
·         Clean and safe drivers license.
·         Stand and walk for up to 6 hours a day.
·         Ability to lift 50 pounds with no restrictions.

Send resume to: Town of Wellsville

                            ATTN: Joe Danneheim

                            156 N Main Street

                            Wellsville, NY 14895

The Canteen closes its door in Angelica

After two plus years in business, The Canteen café at 40 West Main Street in Angelica has closed. The owner posted this notice on Facebook Thursday morning:

We sadly have to let you know that The Canteen has permanently closed.

Thank you to all who have supported us over the past two plus years. We have enjoyed serving everyone here and becoming part of the Angelica community.

Here's hoping we meet again in the future.

Wayne and The Canteen Tea

Robert Warboys running for Alma Town Board

My name is Robert Warboys.  I was a councilman for the Town of Alma years ago, I currently hold that position and am looking for your vote as a write-in candidate for that same position. I am a long-time resident of the town of Alma since 1976. I have been married for 41 years, a father of three, with 8 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.  I am a proud member of SCOPE and the NRA.; A member of the Petrolia Fire Department and a fireman of over 50 years.  I see what is happening in our small community and I want the opportunity to continue to represent this town, and see things fixed.  We need to start to come together, work hard for our town, and as a community.  On Tuesday, November 5th, vote on line 11 or 12 “R. Warboys.” I would appreciate your vote.

High Wind Warning issued for Allegany County

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
316 AM EDT Thu Oct 31 2019

NYZ013-014-021-311530-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WI.Y.0017.191101T0000Z-191101T2100Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.HW.W.0004.191101T0400Z-191101T1700Z/
Livingston-Ontario-Allegany-
Including the cities of Geneseo, Canandaigua, and Wellsville
316 AM EDT Thu Oct 31 2019

...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 1 PM EDT
FRIDAY...

* WHAT...West winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph
  expected.

* WHERE...Livingston, Ontario, and Allegany counties.

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 1 PM EDT Friday.

* IMPACTS...Damaging winds will blow down some trees and power
  lines. Scattered power outages are expected. Travel will be
  difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around
trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of
your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if
you must drive.

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Inherent Resolve.
Sgt. Nathaneil G. Irish, 23, of Billings, Montana, died Oct. 27, 2019, of a non-combat related incident at Camp Taji, Iraq. The incident is under investigation.
Irish was assigned to 25th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Allegany County Democratic Committee Meets in Belmont

Belmont, NY - The Allegany County Democratic Committee will meet next on Wednesday, November 13th at 6:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the American Legion Post 808, 29 Schuyler St., Belmont, NY.  All registered Democrats are invited to attend to learn more about the Democratic Party’s activities in Allegany County.

The agenda will include a recap of our fall fundraiser, proposed amendments to our by-laws, and preliminary planning for 2020 elections. Please contact Secretary Jackie Kelly at alleganydemssec@aol.com if you have additional items for the agenda.

The Allegany County Democratic Committee is the official governing body for the County Party, working toward broader representation by Democrats at the local, state, and national levels.  Learn more at www.alleganycountydemocrats.org or on Facebook, email alleganydemssec@aol.com or phone (607) 661-8089.

Decker takes on new role at Allegany Arc

Allegany Arc, a human services provider that provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, is pleased to announce the promotion of Rebecca Decker to Strategy Fulfillment Director. In her new role, Rebecca will be responsible for developing a road map for the implementation of the agency’s strategic destinations as defined collaboratively by the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Management Team. Rebecca will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer to manage projects as well as supervise customer-facing administrative staff.

Rebecca joined the Allegany Arc team in 2000 as a Receptionist. She has held several positions in the agency and has served as Executive Assistant since 2015. Rebecca serves as Clerk to the Board of Directors for Allegany Arc and Clarity Wellness Community and is a current participant of Leadership Allegany. 

Rebecca had this to say about her tenure at Allegany Arc, “Allegany Arc is filled with some of the most caring, compassionate, generous, and thoughtful people I have ever worked with. I can’t imagine not being part of this agency, one that has seen me through the darkest of days and the happiest of moments. If you are looking to make a difference, Allegany Arc is hiring.”  

Rebecca said she is incredibly excited about this opportunity. She continued, “Allegany Arc’s Executive Management Team is filled with bright and passionate people who are not only invested in the best possible services for people with special needs but in the many staff who keep Allegany Arc running on a daily basis. It’s an amazing feeling to be part of that.”

Allegany Arc is dedicated to providing opportunities to people with special needs and their families. For more information, visit www.AlleganyArc.org or www.facebook.com/AlleganyArc.

Wind Advisory posted for Allegany County

Wind Advisory

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Buffalo NY 

...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THURSDAY TO 5 PM EDT FRIDAY...

* WHAT...West winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected.

* WHERE...Wayne, Livingston, Ontario, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties.

* WHEN...From 8 PM Thursday to 5 PM EDT Friday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Andover Halloween hours

Andover Trick or Treat hours are 6p.m.-8p.m. on Thursday October 31. 

Obituary: Colin T. McCabe, 17, Scio school senior

WELLSVILLE - Colin T. McCabe, 17, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday (Oct. 29, 2019) at home. Colin was born on Oct. 11, 2002 in Wellsville to Thomas W. and Amy L. (Gleave) McCabe. He was currently a senior at Scio Central School.

In addition to his father Thomas W. McCabe of Scio, Colin is survived by six siblings, Thomas W. (Leah) McCabe, III of Attica, Heidi (Thomas) Heary of Lockport, Vincent (Jenn) McCabe of Lackawanna, Kevin McCabe of Clarence, and Christine Mooney and Robert Mooney, both of Kenmore; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his mother, Amy L. McCabe in 2014. Colin and his dad developed a special relationship as they forged a life together after the loss of wife and Mom. Colin’s Dad has many cherished memories of time spent with him in the shop and listening to their favorite music. Colin loved working on cars. He was attending BOCES in Belmont taking auto body repair, his favorite pastime.    

Calling hours will be held on Friday from Noon-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. at Baker-Swan Funeral Home, 3256 Riverside Drive, Wellsville-Scio. The funeral service will be held on Friday at 6:00 p.m. immediately following the visitation with Pastor Ben Eder of the Pilgrim Lutheran Church of Kenmore officiating. Online condolences may be offered at https://www.baker-swan.com.  Memorial contributions in Colin’s name may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children – Erie, 1645 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505.

New donations to Hart Comfort House of Allegany County

Dylan P. Foust, licensed manager at Mullholland-Crowell presenting a check to Hart Comfort House Executive Director, Scott Swift in honor of the volunteers.  Also shown are:  Katie Jo Foust, Mulholland-Crowell office manager and Kathie Timpano, Hart Comfort House volunteer.

Town of Wellsville public hearing

Town of WellsvillePublic Notice 
The Town of Wellsville will hold a Public Hearing on Monday November 4, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in the Town Clerk’s Office at 156 N Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the upcoming Town of Wellsville Budget for 2020.

All persons interested in this matter will be heard at such time and place.  Individuals with disabilities or senior citizens who require assistance in attending said public hearing of in furnishing comments should contact the Town Clerk three (3) days in advance if possible, to request such assistance.
Town Clerk
Sylvia LaChance

Suicide: The Ripple Effect Showing in Wellsville

Wellsville, NY – On November 5, 2019, at 5:30p.m., Ardent Solutions and the Allegany County Suicide Prevention Coalition will present a special premiere screening of Suicide: The Ripple Effect at the David A. Howe Library Auditorium located at 155 N Main St, Wellsville, NY.  The event is free and open to the public.

 

With strong endorsements from some of the world’s leading suicide prevention experts, this film is being shown around the world. “Kevin Hines’ Suicide: The Ripple Effect is a marvel of inspiration, a film that should be seen by anyone who has known despair, and anyone who is or has been close to someone in a suicidal crisis.’ Dr. John Draper, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

 

The film chronicles the story of Kevin Hines, who at age 19 attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Since then Kevin has been on a mission to use his story to help others find recovery and stay alive and has become the world’s most prominent suicide prevention speaker and advocate. The film also features some of the world’s leading suicide prevention experts and shines light on people who are using personal experiences with suicide to help others find the hope they need to stay alive.

 

“Ardent Solutions and the Allegany County Suicide Prevention Coalition are very passionate about raising awareness on suicide prevention and opening avenues of how to speak about suicide,” explained Jose Soto, System Transformation Manager at Ardent Solutions. “We have decided to show this film as another way to discuss suicide prevention and illustrate how suicide effects so many people. Following the screening, we will have an important Q&A and discussion on the topic featuring local leaders on suicide prevention.”

 

Across the globe, nearly 1 million people die annually by suicide. In the United States alone there are one million suicide attempts each year and over 44,000 deaths by suicide, with our military being hit particularly hard. Research has shown that for every one death by suicide, over 115 people are directly affected and impacted. The estimated financial cost of suicide is over 51 billion dollars annually.

 

With your support we can draw more attention to this devastating health crisis, while helping more people find the support they need to #BeHereTomorrow.  For further information, please contact Jose Soto, Ardent Solutions, at 585-593-5223. Ext. 1012 or by email at sotoj@ardentnetwork.org.

Obituary: Marjorie R. Anderson, 89, Wellsville

WELLSVILLE - Marjorie R. Anderson, 89, passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at the Hart Comfort House in Wellsville. She was born July 2, 1930 in Portville the daughter of the late Clifford and Florence (Wilbur) Hewitt. On June 3, 1950 in Friendship she married Joseph R. Anderson who predeceased her on June 11, 2012.

Marjorie was raised in Portville and Friendship, graduating in 1948 from Friendship Central School. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church. She was a homemaker who enjoyed knitting, sewing, cooking, and baking. Her pies and cakes were loved by her whole family. Her happiest times were taking care of her children and grandchildren, and spending time with her family. She volunteered as a Girl Scout leader and for many years at the Jones Memorial Hospital Snack Bar and Information Desk.

She is survived by two daughters, Denise (John) Richardson of State College, PA, and Nancy (Jerome) Hart of Wellsville, four grandchildren, Traci Richardson, Brian (Kim Rice) Richardson, Jerome Hart II, and Elizabeth Hart, three great grandchildren, Eleanor Ann Embser, Evan Anderson Embser, and Zoe McKenna Richardson, two sisters-in-law, Eleanor Anderson Driscoll, and Roxanne Hewitt, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased in addition to her husband, by four brothers, Doug, Bud, James, and Wendell “Ike” Hewitt.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, November 2, 2019 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church, 36 Maple Avenue in Wellsville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 11:00 a.m. following visitation. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Hart Comfort House or the Immaculate Conception School. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Bernice F. Robbins, 90, Belmont

BELMONT - Bernice F. Robbins, 90, of 5134 Nobel Street in Belmont died on October 28, 2019 at the Olean General Hospital. She was born on July 30, 1929 to the late Leo and Effie (Mayo) Graham. On November 11, 1948, she married Robert A. Robbins who predeceased her in 2007. Bernice was a lifelong resident of Belmont who graduated from Belmont High School and for many years she worked for the Belmont Central School cafeteria and library.  She later worked for the former State Bank of Belmont and retired from Steuben Trust Company in 1994. She was an avid deer hunter who enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, crocheting, cooking and baking for her family. Later in life Bernice enjoyed bird watching at home and especially enjoyed seeing the hummingbirds. Survivors include 3 sons: Robert “Dave” (Jan) Robbins of Katy TX; Steven (MiCha) Robbins of Hanover, MD; Gary Robbins of Scio; 8 grandchildren, Lindsey Klinefelter, Jeffery Robbins, Angela Huber, Andraya Huber, Aaron Robbins, and Mira Robbins; Logan Flurschutz and Chase Robbins; 2 great-grandchildren, Griffin Klinefelter and Anna Huber; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased, in addition to her parents and husband, by a son Michael Robbins and a sister Beverly Middaugh.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, November 18, 2019 at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Belmont. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at 10 a.m. in the funeral home.  Burial will be in Forest Hills Cemetery in Belmont.

Memorials in Bernice's name may be made to the Ambulatory Unit of Olean General Hospital. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.  

Probation ordered for Almond man charged in family dispute

An Almond man will spend five years on probation for violating a court order. Prosecutors said 26-year-old Juston Conklin violated an order of protection during a domestic dispute on Steenrod Road in Friendship in April.  He was convicted of first-degree criminal contempt, a felony charge. The judge also ordered six months of electronic home monitoring and issued an order of protection for five years. Prosecutors said Conklin was involved in a physical domestic dispute with a child present and when he left the home, he broke a glass porch window. Conklin disregarded a court order to stay away. The case was prosecuted by J. Thomas Fuoco from the DA's office and Conklin was represented by J. R. Santana from the Public Defender's Office.

MORGAN ENDORSED BY UNITED AUTO WORKERS

Freedom, NY—State Senate candidate Austin Morgan has been endorsed by the United Auto Workers Region 9 Community Action Program Council.  This Region 9 Council represents thousands of union workers in Western and Central New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. UAW Local 774, which represents workers at the GM plant in Tonawanda and includes members who live within the 57th Senate district.

In an endorsement letter to the Austin Morgan for State Senate campaign, Region Director Jeff Binz wrote “Good luck for a successful campaign, and we look forward to helping you win on Election Day!”

Morgan stated: “The United Auto Workers have just ratified a new contract with General Motors after a 40-day strike. They were fighting for fair wages, protecting American factories, and making clear that the working class deserves its fair share when companies like GM make massive profits and the CEO makes $22 million. It is an honor to receive this endorsement from the United Auto Workers in WNY, but it was an even greater honor to stand with the many hard-working men and women on the picket line who stood for justice and fairness in the workplace. With this endorsement, we are one step further to proving that Albany does not need any more wealthy executives, we need people who understand hard work, the value of a dollar, and the needs of the working class.”

UAW Region 9 members work in automotive, aerospace and steel industries. Members make doors, quarter panels, hoods, fenders and other stamped parts for Ford F-150, 250 and 350 trucks, Flex, Edge, Focus and Econoline vehicles, and for Lincoln MKX and MKTs. Members also build the V-22 Osprey troop transport helicopter and the Chinook medium-lift helicopter at the Boeing facility in Philadelphia.

Austin Morgan has been previously endorsed in his race for the 57th State Senate district by the Southwestern NY Building and Construction Trades Council, the Public Employees Federation, Run for Something, and the NYS Young Democrats Rural Caucus.

New York issues new rules and regulations for poll watchers

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Tuesday signed legislation clarifying the process for appointing poll watchers in any general, primary, special, village or town election (S.3141-A/A.1525-A) and ensuring poll locations are adequately staffed based on the individual needs of a polling location (S.3146/A.1454).

 

"Transparent elections are crucial to ensuring voters have their voices heard." Governor Cuomo said. "By signing these measures into law, we modernize our elections, bringing efficiency and common sense to a process that has been unnecessarily ambiguous for far too long."

 

S.3141-A/A.1525 Clarifying the Process for Appointing Poll Watchers

 

This measure clarifies the process for appointing poll watchers in any general, primary, special, village or town election, allowing candidates on the ballot and political committees three watchers for each election district and only one within the guardrail at any time. By amending this law, New York State is providing greater insight and clearer authority for appointing poll watchers, which has historically been a convoluted and contentious process.  

 

S.3146/A.1454 Ensuring Poll Locations are Adequately Staffed

 

This measure allows a board of elections to design an alternative poll site staffing plan based on the individual needs of a polling location. Currently, many staffing plans are determined and structured based on when voting was conducted on lever voting machines. However, over time the organization and voting methods of poll sites have changed significantly. By allowing boards of elections to determine the staffing plan based on actual demand and BOE regulation, and not statutory requirements, New Yorkers will see increased efficiency at individual polling locations. 

 

On January 24, 2019, Governor Cuomo signed a comprehensive package of reforms to modernize New York's voting laws, including synchronizing federal and state elections to ensure that voters only go to the polls once to choose their nominees; allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote; and enacting universal transfer of voter registrations.

Steuben County Sheriff's Blotter

The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office arrested 33-year-old Victoria L Burley of Avoca. It is alleged that in April, she knowingly and with intent to defraud, presented both forged and false documents to the Steuben County Department of Social Services. Burley was charged with two counts each of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, a class E felony and two counts each of Forgery in the second degree, a class D Felony. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Steuben County Department of Social Services Fraud and Legal Affairs Unit and the District Attorney’s Office.

Steuben deputies arrested 32-year-old Richard H. Wood of Savona. On October 12 deputies responded to a report of one car roll over vehicle crash County Route 17 in the Town of Bradford. Deputies alleged that Wood operated a motor vehicle in an intoxicated condition traveling Northeast on County Route 17, crashed and left the scene. As a result of the investigation Wood was charged with felony Driving While Intoxicated, Refusal to Take Breath Test, failure to keep right, consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle and operator leaving the scene of a property damage accident. He is scheduled to appear in Bradford Town Court at a later date.

Cuba Police Blotter

*** Press Release ***

On Monday October 28th, 2019, at approximately 12:02 p.m. after a traffic stop on State Route 305 in the Cuba-Rushford School zone, Cuba Police arrested Judith A. Wilkinson, 64, of Niagara Falls. Wilkinson was charged with failure to maintain lane (Violation),driving while intoxicated (Misdemeanor),driving while intoxicated with a BAC greater than .08% (Misdemeanor), driving while intoxicated with a BAC greater than .18% (Misdemeanor). Wilkinson was processed and released to a third party. Wilkinson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NYS OASAS Announces Name Change

NYS OASAS today announced a name change from the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services to the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), which along with other notable changes will address the replacement of stigmatizing language in the system of addiction care in New York State. The name change is effective immediately.
The new name also coincides with the launch of a new OASAS website. The redesigned website will ensure that information and resources related to addiction prevention, treatment and recovery are easily accessible to the public. The address of the website remains at https://oasas.ny.gov/.
“I have been proud to spearhead our aggressive efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in partnership with OASAS as Co-Chair of the NYS Heroin and Opioid Task Force,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. “The renaming of OASAS to the Office of Addiction Services and Supports is part of our ongoing efforts to reduce the stigma of addiction and better highlight the services and support offered to individuals and families across the state. We want to make sure we are continuing to raise awareness and are committed to advancing investments in treatment and recovery centers to address the crisis and help save lives.”
“Addiction services have changed over the years, and we need to continue to adapt to these changes,” OASAS Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez said. “This is a major step towards aligning state law with our mission, with a new name that is much more reflective of the recovery-centered goals of our agency. In addition, our new state-of-the-art website will help people in need better access information and services related to addiction. Through these steps we are helping to ensure that New York State continues to lead the nation in providing a recovery-friendly environment for those affected by this disease.”

In addition to updating the name of the agency, other language changes include changing terms such as “alcoholism,” “alcoholic,” “alcoholic beverage,” “recovered alcoholic,” “alcohol abuse,” variations on the use of “substance” or “chemical dependence,” and gambling disorder as an “impulse control disorder.”

Causer Bill to Boost Funding for EMS Training, Equipment Earns House Approval

HARRISBURG – A plan to improve the affordability and accessibility of training for emergency services agencies in rural areas was approved unanimously in the state House Monday, said Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint), prime sponsor of the measure.

 

“With the number of volunteer first responders declining in rural communities, one of the most important things we can do is make sure people who want to serve can afford the necessary training to do so,” Causer said. “EMT class costs are approaching $1,000, which is a lot to ask of someone who wants to volunteer his or her time to serve their community.”

 

House Bill 1838 aims to make training more affordable by increasing funding for the Emergency Medical Services Operating Fund (EMSOF) and requiring at least 30% of the funding to be used to provide training to underserved rural areas. In addition, the bill would require 10% of the funds to be provided directly to EMS providers to help with purchasing medical equipment for their ambulances.

 

EMSOF is currently funded by a $10 fee on moving violations and a $25 fee for driving under the influence incidents. Causer’s bill would increase those fees to $20 and $50, respectively. It would be the first increase in the fees in more than three decades.

 

Causer also applauded passage of a bill to address staffing issues for ambulance services in rural counties. House Bill 1869, which Causer co-sponsored, would allow the Department of Health to grant waivers to staffing requirements on a Basic Life Support (BLS) service ambulance in fifth- through eighth-class counties. Current law requires that a BLS ambulance be staffed at a minimum with at least one individual who is certified as an emergency medical responder (EMR) or higher and one who is licensed as an emergency medical technician (EMT), which isn’t always realistic for a rural ambulance company to maintain around the clock.

 

“Communities across the state rely on our fire and EMS services to protect public safety, but these organizations are struggling,” Causer said. “The House has been working hard for the last few weeks to advance policies to help address the challenges they face, including funding, training and staffing issues.”

 

Among the bills passed by the House recently are those that would allow volunteer fire relief money to be used for retention of existing volunteer members and providing incentives for recruiting new volunteer firefighters (House Bill 1673); make online training more readily available to current and prospective first responders (Senate Bill 146); and increase the maximum loan limits available to volunteer fire companies and emergency medical services through the Volunteer Loan Assistance Program (House Bill 1816).

 

To further encourage volunteerism for emergency response organizations, we also passed bills to authorize counties and school districts to offer a tax credit toward the property tax liability of active volunteers (municipalities were granted this option in 2016) and created both tuition assistance and higher education loan forgiveness programs for active volunteers.

 

Learn more about the bill package at www.PAHouseGOP.com.

Obituary: Margaret M. Billings, 82, of Hallsport

Margaret M. Billings, 82, of Hallsport, NY, died Tuesday, October 29, 2019 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville. Born February 26, 1937, in Wellsville, she was the daughter of Samuel Glen and Mary Keller Meyer. On January 8, 1956, in Martinsburg, PA, she married Roger M. Billings, who survives. She was employed by Empire Gas in Wellsville, Super Duper in Wellsville, owned and operated the Hallsport General Store for over 20 years, and operated a dairy farm with her husband. She served as Town of Willing Clerk, Tax Collector, and Notary for 25 years. Margaret’s whole goal in life was helping people.  She was devoted to the care of her family. A cancer survivor, she provided encouragement to others battling the affliction.  She loved cooking, canning, and her dachshunds. Surviving besides her husband, Roger, are: four children, Roger M. (Elizabeth) Billings, Jr., Pam Billings Brandes, Brenda L. Billings, and Bradley Billings, all of Hallsport; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two siblings, Jack (Cathy) Meyer and Trudy Meyer, both of Placerville, CA; nieces and nephews. A private graveside service will be held in Hallsport Cemetery. The Rev. Michael Brady will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps, P.O. Box 206, Wellsville, NY 14895 or the SPCA serving Allegany County, P.O. Box 381, Wellsville, NY 14895. Arrangements are entrusted to Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Free Wind Ensemble Concert at Houghton College This Friday

Houghton, N.Y.—On Friday, November 1^st, Houghton College’s Wind Ensemble will present a free concert of musical selections for the public. The concern also features two faculty members as featured soloists.
Dustin Woodard, assistant professor of percussion, will perform in “The Principle of Polarity” by Brett William Dietz. This new piece, commissioned by the Greatbatch School of Music, is designed to highlight the skill and dexterity of the solo vibraphonist.
Dr. Kimberly Prins Moeller, assistant professor of voice, will feature as a solo vocalist in “Um Mitternacht” by Gustav Mahler. Mahler, a respected and influential Jewish composer of the late Romantic period, wrote “Um Mitternacht” as part of his Rückert-Lieder, based on the poetry of Friedrich Rückert.
“We are thrilled to be featuring two of our Greatbatch School of Music faculty members in this concert,” says Dr. Timothy McGarvey, wind ensemble conductor and professor of conducting at Houghton. “It will prove to be a beautiful and exciting evening of music.”
Two of Houghton’s graduate conducting students, Marissa Perez and Dakota Hirsch, will each conduct a piece during the concert. Perez will conduct “Scenes from the Louvre” by Norman Dello Joio, from Joio’s Emmy Award-winning score to the 1964 documentary The Louvre. Hirsch, meanwhile, will conduct “Movement II, After ‘The Thunderer’” by Ira Hearshen, taken from Hearshen’s Symphony on Themes of John Philip Sousa.
The wind ensemble program will also feature music from Eric Whitacre, David Gillingham, and Ron Nelson. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy pieces in a variety of styles, all anchored by the core wind ensemble instrumentation.
Houghton College’s wind ensemble is a premiere, audition-only ensemble featuring talented and dedicated student instrumentalists. The ensemble performs multiple times a semester, both on campus and across the Western New York region. They also tour regularly in the spring.
This weekend’s concert runs from 7:30 to 8:30 PM in Houghton College’s Wesley Chapel. The event is free and open to the public, with no advance ticket required. For more information, including directions to the Houghton College campus, please visit the online college calendar at houghton.edu/events.

Alma Highway Superintendent issues statement on Town rejection of snow/ice contract with county

Statement from Alma Highway Superintendent Dan Ford

The FACTS about the Town of Alma and the Allegany County Snow and Ice Contract...

The Town of Alma has always had a great working relationship with Allegany County. This goes back for decades and if one or the other has needed anything, we have always worked together. For all of my time here as Highway Superintendent, and for the time of my predecessors, we have always signed the Allegany County Snow and Ice Contract. It has worked well for both the Town and the County by putting more money into the Town of Alma and keeping costs down for the County. Alma cannot be compared to other towns like Wellsville because our policy for roads is different. Wellsville has a budget of over one million dollars and with this much money, their Superintendent is able to have his workers out more often so they use more resources. Alma’s budget is less than half of that and we keep our roads as clear as possible depending on what the weather throws at us.

Here is a breakdown of the costs and revenue from the Snow and Ice Contract:

2019 $61,203 (2020 $63,420.50)

In 2019 we did a complete change of the cutting edge on the front plow one (1) time during the contracted months. This cutting edge is double-sided and was flipped over before needing to be replaced.

•Shoes, Edge, Carbides, Bolts, Nuts, Washer

•Total $1,017.00

In 2019 we did a complete change of the wing cutting edge two (2) times during the contracted months. This cutting edge is double-sided and was flipped over before needing to be replaced.

•Shoes, Edges, Rubbers, Bolts, Nuts

•Total $1,508.80

Fuel for the County Road run that also consists of five (5) town roads.

•$1.90 per gallon (February Pricing)

•4.1 miles to the gallon

•35.48 miles round trip

•104 trips in 2018/2019 (Contracted Months)

•Total $1,719.12

One man’s approximate wages for the length of the Contract (including all benefits)

•$22,000

Math with the actual numbers:

$63,420.50 - $1,017.00 - $1,508.80 - $1,719.12 - $22,000 = $37,175.58 (profit)

The Alma Highway Department has always been available 24/7 to clear the way for the Emergency Services and when the town is doing the county roads there is open communication due to some members of the Highway Department being in Emergency Services. This changes, in a way, if the County starts doing the run because at this time if there is an emergency, people are able to call me directly and we have always been able to respond. If the County takes over the run there are extra steps and possible delays.

We have to travel County Roads 18, 29, and 38 to get to five (5) of our roads which costs money but with the County Contract we are paid to drive on these roads and it puts money into the Town of Alma Highway Department. It just doesn’t make sense to refuse the contract.

Become an Allegany County Visitor A2D Champion!

Become an Allegany County Visitor A2D Champion!

What is A2D?

Allegany County - Visitor Journey A2D™ is a new Visitor Champion training that helps everyone in our destination create positive visitor experiences from their Arrival to Departure, or from A2D!

Highly customized for our area, this course helps our entire community learn more about the richness of what we offer visitors. Participants LEARN about what makes our area so special, SHARE their knowledge with others, and join together to STRENGTHEN TOURISM, which benefits us all!

Who is it for? Everyone!

The Visitor Journey A2D™ program benefits anyone who works directly with visitors or anyone who might encounter a visitor in the course of their job duties. Citizens and non-traditional hospitality positions, for example Realtors and Police Officers, will also benefit from learning about helping visitors and how important they are to our local economy

Why Take the Course?

Tourism is very important to our destination. The Visitor Journey A2D™ tourism training program was designed to increase awareness of how all of the tourism sectors fit together to build the visitor’s total experience. And, how one person’s actions can create a snowball effect of negative – or positive – encounters. Visitors who have a negative encounter – or feel unwelcome – have the means through social media to tell hundreds of people about their bad experience. This bad publicity impacts income generated from tourism for the worse and, over time, can adversely affect our entire community. Visitors that have an enjoyable experience will spend more, plan to return in the future, and will tell their friends about the great place they just visited! The money generated from visitor spending not only benefits local businesses, it also moves through our community, in a multiplier effect, providing lower taxes, new amenities and better infrastructure, which increases everyone’s quality of life

How Does it Work?

Visitor Journey A2D™ is an online learning program: ONLINE COURSE There are seven short modules filled with videos, activities and quizzes about our area and helping visitors. The Online Course takes about 120-minutes to complete, but you can come and go and finish it at your own pace. Once you’ve successfully completed the course and passed the final quiz, you’ll achieve your Allegany County Visitor A2D Champion™ certificate! Visitor A2D Champions continue to learn about our destination with access to special resources, updates, and invitations to FAMILIARIZATION Tours and industry events.

What Does It Cover?

The interactive and easy to follow A2D training helps you create positive experiences by arming you with local resources, service skills and an increased understanding of your importance to our local tourism industry. Modules cover how tourism works, discovering our area, answering visitor questions, turning a negative visitor’s experience into a positive outcome, and much more. The Online Course activities explore our destination’s unique assets, attractions and challenges in helping visitors.

The Allegany County –Visitor Journey A2D™ program is open to anyone interested in learning more about our local tourism and helping visitors. When you sign up, you’ll receive immediate access to the Online Course and complete it when it fits your schedule. The cost is Free! Go to http://alleganycounty.visitorjourney.com to register in the A2D Learning Center and get started on your journey! Questions? Please contact us to learn more

Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce and Office of Tourism.

585-268-7190 / 800-836-1869