Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Potter County Distributes Grants To Businesses, Non-Profit Agencies
Distribution of nearly $400,000 in financial assistance for
small businesses and non-profit organizations reeling from the economic impact
of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic began this week. Potter County
Commissioners Nancy Grupp, Barry Hayman and Paul Heimel chose to offer the
grant program using federal funds awarded to the county through the federal
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Community
Development Director Ellen Russell, Chief Clerk Jessica Giebel and Planning/GIS
Director Will Hunt assisted the commissioners with the distribution. After an
exhaustive review of federal and state guidelines and restrictions on use of
the funds, Russell said the team was able to achieve its primary goal. “All
Potter County businesses that were deemed eligible based on criteria provided
by the Pa. Dept. of Community and Economic Development received funds to help
make them whole, up to the cap of $25,000,” she reported.
Primary purpose of the program was to provide immediate
relief so that qualifying small businesses and non-profit organizations could
retain employees, continue operations, and remain sustainable. The
commissioners recognized the need to inject the money into the local economy as
quickly as possible, so they fast-tracked the application process. Specifics on
the grant program can be found on the county website, pottercountypa.net,
clicking on “Help for Small Businesses” in the upper right corner.
NY State Police Blotter
9/29/20 7:05pm- State Police arrested Nathaniel A. Dejac, 21, of Fillmore. He was charged with aggravated harassment for allegedly communicating threats. He was released on his own recognizance. The charge stems from a September 6th incident in Belfast.
9/28/20 4:06pm- During a traffic stop, Troopers arrested Matthew B. Blank, 31, of Andover. He was charged with driving while intoxicated. He'll be in court at a later date.
9/29/20 1:40pm- State Police arrested Shawna M. Walsh, 31, of Portville. She was charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. She was issued an appearance ticket for court and released.
Belfast and Genesee Valley Schools Discuss Merger of Athletics Programs
Genesee Valley Central School (GVCS) and Belfast Central School are exploring the prospect of merging athletics programs beginning in the 2021-22 school year.
Representatives from both districts have met multiple times over the past year to review current and projected team numbers and to evaluate the feasibility of merging programs.
“Belfast Central School is discussing merging athletic programs to increase opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Wendy Butler, Superintendent at Belfast. “The merger of programs will allow our students to play sports at an appropriate skill and age level throughout their athletic career.”
GVCS Board of Education President Timothy Hand commented: “We have witnessed the decline of athletic participation over the past several years and feel that it is time to look at all options to increase opportunities for student athletes.”
Two meetings have been scheduled to further the conversation and bring other voices to the discussion. On October 1, a joint meeting will be held at Genesee Valley with the Board of Education Athletics Committees and Varsity coaches. A second meeting with community youth sports leaders will convene at Belfast on October 15. Feedback from the communities of each district will be sought throughout the process.
“We are eager to meet with coaches, youth sports organizers, parents, students, and other stakeholders in both communities,” said Butler. “The goal is to determine what steps make the most sense for the students in both districts.”
“We understand there is long standing pride in both communities and that change is never easy,” said Hand. “However, we believe joining forces may be the best way to secure a sustainable athletics program where competitive, age and skill appropriate teams can be built and maintained."
Wellsville Police Blotter
Date: Tuesday September 29, 2020
Wellsville Police arrested Akeyia E. Thagard, age 31 of Buffalo, charging her with Harassment 2nd. The charge stems from an incident that took place on South Brooklyn Avenue on August 30th. She was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice O’Connor. Thagard was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court on November 17th at 4:30 p.m.
Wellsville Police arrested Akeyia E. Thagard, age 31 of Buffalo, charging her with Disorderly Conduct. The charge stems from an incident that took place on South Main Street. Thagard was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released. Thagard is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on December 15th at 4:30 p.m.
Wellsville Police
arrested Lawrence F. Keating, age 39 of Wellsville, charging him with
Harassment 2nd. The charge
stems from an incident that took place on South Main Street on September 5th. Keating was processed and arraigned before
Wellsville Village Justice O’Connor and released. He is due back in Wellsville Village
Court on December 15th at 4:30 pm.
NYS TROOPERS PBA ENDORSES O’MARA FOR RE-ELECTION IN 58TH SENATE DISTRICT
Elmira, N.Y.—The Police Benevolent Association of the New York State Troopers, Inc. (NYSTPBA) has endorsed the re-election of State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) in New York State’s 58th Senate District.
The NYS Troopers PBA represents more than 6,000 active and retired, uniformed members of the New York State Police, from the rank of Trooper through the rank of Major, including many within the 58th District whose service, past and present, included public safety and protection across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions.
In its endorsement of O’Mara, the NYSTPBA noted, “It is with careful consideration that the NYSTPBA is endorsing Senator Thomas O’Mara for re-election to the NYS Senate 58th District. During these unprecedented times we have endured the passage of bail reform, protesters screaming to ‘defund the police’ and rioters and looters taking to the streets of New York. The resulting disdain and violence against police officers and our citizens are deplorable. Even more shameful is the lack of support and trust that is deserving a person who dons a police uniform and protects us from that which is evil. Even amidst this one-party rule there are still those who support police and fight for effective legislation.”
NYS Troopers PBA 2nd Vice President and Legislative Director John Clark said, “Our members are honored and proud to stand alongside and support Thomas O’Mara as he continues to do for us.”
The 58th Senate District, which O’Mara has represented since 2011, is comprised of all of 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).
O’Mara said, “The men and women of the New York State Police are among the finest and most respected law enforcement officers anywhere in the world. It’s truly a privilege to have earned their confidence and support. These men and women put their lives on the line for us every single day they put on the uniform to patrol our roadways and protect our communities. It’s an incredibly demanding and dangerous occupation, especially in the current climate of lawlessness and violence. I’m proud to stand up for their safety and stand behind every effort to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to perform their duties effectively. On behalf of the entire 58th District, it’s an honor to say thank you to our New York State Troopers for the service and sacrifices you and your families make for all of us.”
Throughout his tenure in the Senate since 2011, O’Mara has stood out as one of the Legislature’s most steadfast advocates of police officers, correctional officers, firefighters, first responders and the entire public safety and security community.
Over the past year, he has strongly opposed and warned against the dangers of the extreme bail reform law enacted by Governor Andrew Cuomo and a state Legislature under the one-party control of largely downstate, New York City-based Democrats.
He currently co-sponsors legislation known as the “Protect Those Who Protect Us Act,” a package of legislation aimed at deterring violence against law enforcement.
O’Mara has sponsored or co-sponsored numerous pieces of legislation to combat the proliferation of meth labs and meth-related criminal activity; to ensure that law officers and their families receive the benefits they have earned and deserve; and to secure the state funding necessary to provide law enforcement agencies and officers with the safety equipment, modern technology and other resources they need to carry out their jobs effectively.
In 2014, O’Mara was appointed to the Senate Task Force on Heroin and Opioid Addiction and since then has successfully worked with his colleagues at the state, local and federal levels --on a bipartisan basis -- to achieve the enactment of numerous new laws and significantly increased state funding which have strengthened the state’s awareness, education, prevention, treatment and enforcement strategies.
Rock and Roll icon, ARC founder and first Emergency Director to be inducted into Steuben Hall of Fame
BATH – A Rock and Roll icon, a pioneer advocate for disabled people and the first Director of Steuben County Emergency Services/ Fire Coordination were unanimously approved by the Steuben County Legislature Monday for induction into the 2020 county Hall of Fame. The inductees were selected from a field of more than 30 candidates and include (in alphabetical order):
· Duane Eddy: A Corning native, Eddy first picked up a guitar at the age of 5. He spent his youth in the Crystal City before his family moved to Arizona where he teamed up with his longtime partner, co-writer, and producer Lee Hazlewood.
Called by many the most successful and influential
instrumentalist in Rock and Roll history, Eddy developed his signature “Twang”
– a unique sound featured on an unprecedented string of 34 chart singles and
sales of more than 100 million worldwide. In addition, he went on to produce
more than 25 albums, earn a Grammy award and collaborate with artists such as
Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Jeff Lynne. In 2004, Eddy was the second
recipient of Guitar Player Magazine’s "Legend Award" following the
award presentation the first year to the fabled Les Paul. Eddy was inducted into
the 1994 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Musicians Hall of Fame Museum in
2008.
· Arthur Hansen: A First Lieutenant with the Army Corps of Engineers in the Pacific during World War II, Hansen graduated from the University of Buffalo with a degree in engineering and worked with the New York State Department of Transportation for 31 years.
He served on the Board of Directors of Maple City Savings
and Loan in Hornell from 1974-1988, and was an ordained elder and deacon in
First Presbyterian Church of Canisteo. Hansen’s most notable impact on Steuben
County came after the birth of a daughter with Down’s Syndrome, when he soon
realized that there was virtually no support for parents with children with
disabilities. Meeting in his home with a small group of parents experiencing
the same struggle led Hansen to found The ARC of Steuben in 1964. He was the
first President of the organization and served on the Board of Directors until
his death in 2000. The Arc is now one of the largest employers of disabled, and
abled, people in Steuben.
· Donald Merring – A Canisteo native and high school graduate, Merring was appointed to the US Naval Academy, later graduating with a degree in technology from Alfred State University. He was employed by Ingersoll Rand from 1961 to 1965, followed by 20 years with H.P. Smith and Son.
• A member of the Canisteo Fire Department (CFD) since
January 1960, Merring continues to actively respond almost daily to emergency
situations as a fire equipment operator and ambulance driver. The CFD Chief
from 1970 to 1977, Merring was instrumental in saving lives and property during
the 1972 flood, which devastated the region. The first Director of the newly
formed Steuben County Emergency Services/ Fire Coordination in 1985, Merring
held the position for 10 years, spending exhaustive hours setting up and
implementing the 911
service center. Upon retirement, he worked as a part time
dispatcher for the county Sheriff and Village of Bath Police departments.
Merring was named Steuben County Fireman of the Year in
2001.
Since 1976, nearly 460 people have been nominated with 149
individuals inducted into Steuben Hall of Fame. Due to restrictions on social
gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a reception for this year's inductees
will be held at a later date.
For a list Steuben County Hall of Fame members, go to
https://www.steubencony.org/pages.asp?PID=357
Money Magazine ranks Alfred State No. 1 in SUNY for lowest average student debt
When compared with all other colleges within the State University of New York (SUNY) system for the lowest average student debt, Alfred State College (ASC) comes in at No. 1 according to Money Magazine.
In its most recent Best Colleges for Your Money rankings, Money Magazine calculates the average student debt amount for Alfred State at $13,000, placing ASC at No. 1 and lowest among SUNY schools and No. 8 when compared to all New York State public and private colleges. According to the rankings, how quickly Alfred State students earn their degrees lowers the average student debt significantly.
Money Magazine determined average student debt by considering a school’s cost information, how much the school awards in grants and scholarships, the amount of federal student loans granted, and the average time it takes the school’s students to earn a degree, all as reported to the US Department of Education.
Alfred State Senior Director of Student Records and Financial Services Julie Rose said, “We are delighted to be recognized by Money Magazine as having the lowest average student debt among all SUNY schools. How quickly our students achieve their degree, low costs, and a high amount of financial aid available to our students all play a part in this terrific ranking. We are proud to say that our students are getting a high-quality education and graduating with high-demand, well-paying jobs, and relatively low student debt.”
Alfred State is one of just 739 colleges nationwide to have made Money Magazine’s Best Colleges for Your Money list. To make the cut, colleges had to have at least 500 students; have sufficient, reliable data to be analyzed; not be in financial distress; and have a graduation rate that was at or above the median for its institutional category or have a high “value-added” graduation rate.
Obituary: Barbara Jean Yagle, 93, of Shinglehouse
Barbara Jean Yagle “beloved mother, grandmother, and dear friend”
SHINGLEHOUSE, Pa.---Barbara Jean Yagle, 93, of Shinglehouse, Pa., passed away peacefully on Monday, September 28, 2020, at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Smethport, having moved there recently from her home in Shinglehouse, where she had lived for over 30 years.
Barbara was born in North Tonawanda, N.Y. on May 4, 1927 to
Holden and Velma Jacobs Mansfield. She
married Jay Yagle in Buffalo. He has
since predeceased her. She later married John Corbett, who has also since
predeceased her.
Barbara graduated from North Tonawanda High School, received a
degree in Psychology from the University of Buffalo and her Master’s degree in
Counseling from Canisius College in Buffalo.
She served as a guidance counselor at Mt. St. Joseph Academy in
Buffalo. She was part owner of a Stretch
and Sew Store in West Seneca, N.Y. She
also worked for Displaced Homemakers in Buffalo. After moving to Pennsylvania, she worked as a
Career Counselor at St. Bonaventure University and served as head of Career
Counseling at the University until her retirement in 1995.
Barbara was an outstanding cook and enjoyed sharing her creations and recipes with family and
friends. On of her favorite pastimes was
perusing her hundreds of cookbooks looking for new recipes to try. She was an avid gardener, especially
vegetables which often went into her creations.
She was a birdwatcher, participating in the Cornell Feeder and Bird Watch
for many years. She was also a talented
seamstress.
As a younger person she participated in badminton, tennis, and
some cross country skiing and hiking in the woods around her home. In her later years, her mobility was limited
but she enjoyed going out to dinner with friends and going to the Oswayo Valley
Senior Center in Shinglehouse for bingo, where she first played it and said she
never seemed to win.
She was most appreciative of and grateful for the care and
support given by the aides, nurses and therapists of Charles Cole Home Health
while she was still home and the staff of Lakeview when she moved there.
She is survived by her sons, Jeffrey (Martha) Yagle of Buffalo
and Johnathan (Gail) Yagle of Amesbury, Massachusetts; two granddaughters, Alex
and Sammy; a great-granddaughter, Peyton; and a longtime dear friend and
companion, Cindy Zembryki.
Barbara was predeceased by her beloved dog pals, Beth, Ben, and
Emmy, whom she hoped to meet again over the Rainbow Bridge.
At the request of Barbara and the family, there will be no
viewing or visitation. There will be a
celebration of her life at a later time to be announced. She will be interred next to her parents in
White Chapel Cemetery in Amherst, N.Y.
Memorials may be made in her name to the Oswayo Valley Memorial
Library, PO Box 188, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; to the Shinglehouse Ambulance
Association, PO Box 98, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; or to a charity of the donor’s
choice.
Barbara’s care has been entrusted to her friend, Kevin J.
Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home,
Shinglehouse.
To express condolences or share a fond memory of Barbara, please
visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com
or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Obituary: Gary Robert Fessenden, 79, Roulette
Born on Wednesday, July 30, 1941 in Roulette, he was a son of
Robert Arnel and Charlotte Maxine Tauscher Fessenden.
Gary attended school in Roulette and was a graduate of Port
Allegany High School. He attended
Mansfield University.
Always a hard worker, Gary, at the age of 13, started working for
his father at B & F Ditching in Roulette.
He later worked for North Penn Gas in Roulette for approximately 15
years. Gary then started his own
business, Fessenden Construction, which was natural gas pipeline
construction. He ran his business for 24
years with his two sons, daughter, and brother, retiring in 2008.
He served as a Roulette Township
Supervisor; served on the Port Allegany School Board; and also served on the
Lyman Cemetery Association in Roulette.
Gary was a member of the Riverside United Methodist Church in Roulette,
a member of Eulalia Lodge #342, Coudersport, and a member of the Coudersport
Consistory. He was a lifetime
member of the NRA and was an avid hunter.
Surviving are three
sons, Jeff (Ajeng) Contz of Johnstown, Scott
(Tiff) Fessenden of Gold, and A.J. (Kris) Fessenden of Roulette; a
daughter, Susan C. Fessenden-Helo of Dubois; five grandchildren, Andrew
(Brittany) Fessenden, Brittany Freer, Cheyenne Helo, Erika Helo, and Daulton
Helo; five great-grandchildren, Kole Freer, Kiersten Freer, Chandylr Fessenden,
Charlotte Fessenden, and Piper Renner; his companion, Julie Adair of Edinboro;
a sister, Carlene (Tom) Kio of Roulette; a brother, Mike (Robin) Fessenden of
Roulette; and several nieces and nephews.
Gary was predeceased by his parents.
A celebration will be held on a date and place to be
announced. Burial will be in Lyman
Cemetery, Roulette.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Roulette
Volunteer Ambulance Association, PO Box 172, Roulette, PA 16746 or to the
Roulette Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 172, Roulette, PA 16746.
Gary entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral
director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences or share a fond memory of Gary, please
visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com
or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
‘Funerals yesterday, today and tomorrow’
The Thelma Rogers Genealogical and Historical Society & Nathaniel Dike Museum will have it’s meeting on October 7th, 7:00 p.m. at Mulholland -Crowell Funeral Home located at 296 N. Main Street in Wellsville. Our meeting is hosted by Dylan Foust, owner of the Mulholland -Crowell and Olney/ Foust Funeral homes. He also owns a crematorium and is an Allegany County Coroner. His topic is ‘funerals yesterday, today and tomorrow.’ This is open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. Snacks and drinks provided.
Obituary: David L. Wright, 83, Cuba
CUBA - David L. Wright, of 1892 Wolf Creek Rd., formerly of Olean, went to be with his Lord on Monday, September 28, 2020, at the Hart Comfort House in Wellsville, surrounded by his family.
David was born on May 1, 1937 in Olean and was the son of Bert Leonard and Margaret Mae Howard Wright. On July 6, 1957, he married his wife of 63 years, Shirley A. Doran Wickline, who survives.
David was a 1955 graduate of Olean High School. He enlisted in the US Air Force in January of 1955. After basic training, David was stationed at Sampson Air Force Base in Geneva and then Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX, where he attended Jet Engine Technician School. Following his training, he was stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base in Columbus, OH, with temporary duty time at Thule Air Force Base in Greenland for 3 months. David was stationed in Columbus, OH until his discharge in November of 1958.
David worked for Fibre Forming in Olean for 5 years. On March 16, 1963, he went to work for Clark Brothers, with his 4 brothers, as a welder, an inspector, a supervisor, and a foreman, where he retired after 37 years in 2002.
David formerly attended the Mt. Zion Christian Assembly in Olean. He was a member of the NRA and formerly a member of the Olean Beagle Club. David loved hunting and being outdoors.
Along with his loving wife, David is survived by; 1 son, Douglas E. (Julie Wormer) Wright of Charlestown, MA; 3 daughters, Linda J. (Greg) Summers, Brenda M. (John) McCartney, and Glenda D. (Martin) Mix of Olean; a stepson, David Wickline of Westerville, OH; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
David was predeceased by; 5 brothers, infant, Buddy, Howard, Robert, Norman, and Larry Wright; and 2 sisters, Edna Wright Conrad and June Wright Potter.
Friends will be received at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 East State Street, Olean, on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, October 3, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at which time a Funeral Service will be held. The Rev. Al Batt, Associate Pastor of Believer's Chapel, will officiate. Burial will be at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Olean. Full military honors will be accorded by the Allegany American Legion, Charles Harbel Post #892 Ritual Team. Online condolences may be made at www.LetroMcIntoshSpinkFuneralHome.com.
In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to the Hart Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, New York 14895.
National Grid files proposal for up to $50 million in COVID-19 relief for qualifying Upstate customers
SYRACUSE -- National Grid today filed a customer assistance proposal with its New York regulator that would provide up to $50 million in financial assistance to support its most economically vulnerable residential customers as well as businesses that are struggling because of the pandemic’s financial impact.
The company sought input from the New York State Department of Public Service staff, customer advocates and other stakeholders to design the programs and determine how best to allocate the assistance to those most in need.
“Six months into the pandemic, the economic recovery remains relatively flat and unemployment rates are increasing sharply in the COVID-19 recession," said John Bruckner, National Grid’s New York president. "National Grid’s relief package offers an important opportunity to provide our customers with financial assistance to lessen their hardship beyond what we currently offer through our existing COVID-19 programs and services.”
Bruckner noted that funding for the programs will be targeted to customers who are in arrears and/or unable to pay their energy bills due to financial hardship stemming from the pandemic.
“By redeploying existing customer funds to programs carefully designed to address identified economic hardships, we believe our proposed programs will help with the financial difficulties currently being experienced by our customers,” he said.
Programs Offer Additional Support for Economically Vulnerable Residential Customers
National Grid’s proposal includes up to $25 million in funding for two new programs forresidential customers enrolled in the company’s Energy Assistance Program. Participants in the EAP are among the company’s most vulnerable customers, facing financial hardships that could require them to choose between paying their energy bills and other necessities. The company believes that bill credits are the best tool for providing immediate assistance to help these customers manage their energy costs.
Program Highlights:Enhanced Economic Development Programs
For National Grid’s business customers, the company’s proposal includes up to $25 million for a new arrears forgiveness plan and two enhanced economic development grant programs.
Program Highlights:
Under the proposal, EAP customers would receive an immediate, one-time bill credit on both the gas and electricity portions of their bills.
Customers enrolled in EAP who also have a Deferred Payment Agreement will receive up to 12 monthly arrears incentive payments if they honor that agreement, which requires paying their current bill and a monthly installment toward their past due balance.
If there are any funds remaining in this program after 12 months, the balance will be shared as a final one-time bill credit for all EAP customers.
Upon implementation, distressed business customers who enroll in a Deferred Payment Agreement under the program’s guidelines, will receive a bill credit on a portion of their arrears if they are current on their DPA.
These customers may receive a second bill credit on a portion of their arrears upon completion of their DPA.
A new COVID-19 Recovery Assistance Grant Program that offers grants to large commercial and industrial customers for eligible recovery-related expenses, including personal protective equipment, environmental health and safety measures, interest expenses associated with pandemic-related loans, and machinery and equipment costs.
Further enhancing the existing Manufacturing Productivity Program so that qualifying small- and medium-sized business can apply for funds to support COVID-19 recovery and future resiliency, including business continuity planning, enterprise risk management, and support for employee/environmental health and safety. The funding would remain available through August or until program funding is depleted.
Bruckner noted that while New York State and the federal government have taken measures to assist residents and businesses during this unprecedented time, the duration of the pandemic is unknown, and the impacts are difficult to predict. “We believe that additional assistance is necessary for our customers. Our proposal is a way for us to provide crucial near-term relief,” he said.
Continuing Customer Commitment
National Grid remains focused on providing solutions to customers who are suffering from thepandemic’s financial and personal impacts. Some of the immediate actions the company took at the onset of the pandemic to help customers include:
Donating nearly $1 million across New York to support hunger relief, human services agencies and others.
Pausing residential disconnections and fees, late payment charges and collections-related activities and offering flexible payment plans.
Launching extensive customer outreach through emails, letters, traditional and digital media, webinars, and calls to provide information on managing energy bills, offer flexiblepayment and billing options, and provide details on financial assistance and energy savings programs. We encourage customers who are struggling to pay their bills to contactus as soon as possible so that we can help.
Offering the expertise of our Consumer Advocates to provide crisis intervention support for customers, working closely with county Social Services and community assistance organizations.
Providing enhanced economic development support to New York businesses producing critical pandemic supplies.
Additional details on National Grid’s pandemic preparedness, associated actions and a customer Q&A can be found at ngrid.com/covid-19.
Key Highlights
Up to $25 million for low income customers enrolled in the Energy Assistance Program with immediate bill credits and up to 12 monthly arrears incentive payments.
Up to $20 million in arrears incentive payments for business customers.
Up to $5 million for new COVID-19 recovery assistance grants for commercial, industrial and small business customers.
Five Regions Now on Statewide Drought Watch List
Map of New York State Drought Conditions Available
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that the State has expanded its Drought Watch to the Southern Tier drought region, which includes Cattaraugus, Allegany, Steuben, and Chemung counties. A drought watch remains in effect for Long Island, Upper Hudson/Mohawk, Adirondacks, and Great Lakes/St. Lawrence since Governor Andrew M. Cuomo directed DEC to issue the watch in July after consulting with experts from the State Drought Management Task Force.
DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "DEC urges water users in the Southern Tier and previously designated Drought Watch regions to monitor usage and avoid wasting water. While the watch is just the first stage, it provides New York State agencies and emergency responders advanced notice of a developing drought. We can all do our part to conserve water now by taking simple steps. Minor changes in your everyday routine can go a long way in helping prevent increased drought levels."
A "watch" is the first of four levels of state drought advisories ("watch," "warning," "emergency," and "disaster"). There are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place under a drought watch or warning. Local public water suppliers may impose water use restrictions depending upon local needs and conditions and New Yorkers are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water.
Since spring, dry conditions have been documented in most of New York State and reduced precipitation has resulted in reduced water availability and below-average streamflow with many streams seeing record lows for this time of year. Many lake levels are lower than usual and groundwater levels are reduced due to the prolonged dry spell. Some areas have had water shortages with suppliers issuing water use restrictions and supplementing normal sources.
Conservation tips for homeowners to reduce outdoor water usage include:
- Fix dripping and leaking faucets and toilets. A faucet leaking 30 drops per minute wastes 54 gallons a month;
- Raise lawn mower cutting height. Longer grass needs less water;
- If the community allows watering, water lawns and gardens on alternate mornings instead of every day. Less frequent watering will develop grass with deeper roots, and early morning watering minimizes evaporation;
- When using automatic lawn watering systems, override the system in wet weather or use a rain gauge to control when and how much water to use. A fixed watering schedule wastes water. Irrigate only when needed to save water and improve the lawn's health; and
- Sweep sidewalks and steps rather than hosing them. Eliminating a weekly, five-minute pavement hose-down could save between 625 and 2,500 gallons of water per year depending on the flow rate.
For more water saving tips, visit DEC's webpage.
35 New Cases of COVID-19 in Steuben
BATH – The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that 35 Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the total to 483 confirmed cases, 136 of which are currently active. The individuals are residents of the:
· City of Corning (28)
· City of Hornell
· Town of Campbell
· Town of Thurston
· Town of Urbana
· Town of Woodhull
· Village of Addison
· Village of South Corning
The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks. All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified.
Per CDC and New York State Department of Health guidance, information is collected beginning 48 hours prior to symptom onset or date of test if asymptomatic through the day of the positive test result to identify any potential exposure risks.
The investigations indicate:
· 21 individuals are residents of Corning Center
· Three individuals are employees of Corning Center
· Seven individuals had contact with a positive
· One individual is a student at Hugh Gregg Elementary School in Corning
Public Health worked with Hugh Gregg Elementary school, and the impacted staff and students who were found to have direct contact with the positive student have been contacted to quarantine.
The individuals reported visited the following locations within the investigation timeframe:
· 9/16/20 – 9/18/20, 9/23/20 – 9/25/20 – Ready, Set, Grow Child Care Center in Corning
· 9/22/20 – 9/23/20 – American Medical Response in Corning
· 9/22/20 – 9/25/20 – Upstate Farms Cheese in Campbell
· 9/22/20, 9/23/20, 9/25/20 – New Image Salon in Corning
· 9/22/20 Afternoon – Nail Tech in Corning
· 9/23/20, 9/25/20 Afternoon – Hornell YMCA
· 9/23/20 – 9/24/20 – Pathways Home in Corning
· 9/24/20 Afternoon – Hands on Chiropractic in Corning
· 9/24/20 Afternoon – Smith Asthma and Allergy in Corning
· 9/24, 9/25, 9/28, 9/29/20 – Corning Community College
· 9/25/20 Afternoon – Walmart Nail Salon in Painted Post
· 9/26/20 – The Old Mill Inn Bar & Grill in Alfred Station
· 9/26/20, 9/27/20 – Reisinger’s Apple Country in Watkins Glen
· 9/27/20 – Wegmans in Hornell
“We have had nearly eight times as many cases this month as we had last month,” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “We do not believe anyone knowingly or intentionally spreads COVID-19, however gathering together without masks is one easy way to spread this virus. We must all be extra cautious at this time to slow the spread and save lives. Our current active cases range in age from under age 1 through age 95. None of them need to lose their lives because of COVID-19. We must do everything we can to stop the spread.”
All residents should continue to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills or repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell and contact their healthcare provider for instructions if feeling ill.
For the latest Steuben County updates, visit Steuben County’s website at www.steubencony.org or social media pages: www.facebook.com/
Alfred University COVID-19 testing update
Tuesday’s COVID-19 testing update:
Four students are currently confirmed as positive and remain in isolation. Also, as of Tuesday, there are 54 students in quarantine, on and off campus, related to the students in isolation as a result of contact tracing. We also received some welcome news today: a student who was presumed positive, but tested again to confirm that status, was determined to be negative.
In Monday’s surveillance testing, the testing team administered the pooled saliva test to 129 students. Those students who were assigned to Monday’s testing schedule but did not appear for testing on Monday will be required to meet with the Dean of Student Wellbeing for sanctions under the student conduct policies, and possible suspension or expulsion.
Please remember that COVID-19 testing for our students is a requirement and that each of us must fulfill our shared responsibilities every day for promoting the health and safety of our campus and surrounding community. Our individual actions will be the greatest determining factor in achieving our collective goal of keeping our campus open throughout the Fall semester.
Alfred University COVID-19 Testing Team
Tuesday, September 29, 2020
Obituary: Deborah E. Curry, 70, of Hunt
Deborah E. Curry, 70, of Hunt, NY passed away at her home Sunday, September 27,2020 with her family at her side. She was born March 26,1950 in Cuba, NY to the late John L. and Elizabeth L. (Young) Brandes and predeceased by her son Calvin John Curry.
She enjoyed watching birds and wild life, flowers, cooking, baking, and spending time with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed going to dirt track races with her husband on the occasional summer evenings.
She is survived of her loving husband of 19 years, David Curry Sr, her sons: Louis (Tracy) Curry of Hume, Curtis (Betty) Curry of Hunt, and Dustin Curry of Hunt, step-children: David (Wendy) Curry Jr of Hunt, Josh (Michelle) Curry of Ohio, and Melanie (Scott) Curry of Warsaw, sister: Janet (Donny) Fields of Friendship, brother: John (Nicole) Brandes of Belfast, and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
There will be no service as per Deb’s request, with a celebration of life held at the family’s convenience. Memorial contributions can be made to Dave Curry at 504 Stilson Rd. Hunt, Ny 14846.
Genesee Valley: Woods Walk with Allegany Master Gardener
BELMONT, NEW YORK – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County’s Agriculture Program welcomes you to join us for our first outdoor presentation this year led by Allegany County’s Master Gardener, Dave Chamberlain. The program will be held Saturday, October 3rd at 10:00AM located at the back Genesee Valley Central School past the soccer fields. There is a parking lot that connects to the entrance of the woods and the school’s track field.
Take this opportunity to learn about the Allegany’s native tree species from your local Master Gardener, engaging in conversation, covering topics that may be new to you, along with sharing core tips to identifying trees. There will be plenty of opportunities for questions during the event.
Pre-registration is required and there is a $10 fee for the program. We will require you to sign a CCE Assumption of Risk Form prior to the walk and social distancing and masks will be exercised during the walk. In case of rain or poor weather, the event will be moved to next Sunday. If we reach capacity and cannot properly exercise social distancing we will hold a later session in the afternoon as well as the original time. Please contact Jeremy Baier, Allegany County Cooperative Extension at 585-268-7644 ext. 14, or by email jtb273@cornell.edu for details in order to attend.
This program is one of many offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County (CCE-Allegany). The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university Cornell administers the system in this state. For more information, call 525-268-7644 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/allegany. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.
Angelica man clings to life after serious motorcycle crash in Wellsville - corrected
An Angelica man was gravely injured after the motorcycle he was riding was struck by a car Saturday at the intersection of State Route 417 and Florida Avenue in Wellsville. 25 year-old Tylor M. Glover sustained major injuries and was flown by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo. His injuries are extensive. State Police Public Information Officer Trooper James O'Callaghan said 70-year-old Denise M. Regan of Wellsville was driving on Florida Avenue and struck the motorcyclist as she pulled onto Bolivar Road (SR 417). Glover was ejected. According to a family Facebook post on Sunday, Glover sustained major head trauma and multiple fractures. He was on a ventilator. Trooper O'Callaghan said the investigation continues. It was reported earlier that tickets were issued, however, that was an incorrect statement and misunderstanding with state police. The crash remains under investigation, pending the final report from the accident reconstruction team.
Obituary: Erwin Clinton “Ernie” Wood, 82, of Wellsville
Ernie was born in Rathbone, NY on March 30, 1938, the son of the late Eldred L. and Mary M. (McCaig) Wood. He was raised in Wellsville where he attended Wellsville schools.
When he was a young man, Ernie and his parents moved to Pasadena, Texas where they resided for 35 years. While there, Ernie was employed at the Globe Department Store. He truly enjoyed his time there. They eventually returned to the area, first living in Woodhull and then went back to Wellsville.
Ernie loved to fish and was an avid fan of the Houston Astros, which would always come up in a conversation with him. His favorite day of the year was March 30, his birthday. He never lost his love of Texas and often said he would love to return.
His last few years were spent at Highland Health Center where he truly enjoyed his time as a resident there. Ernie will be missed.
He is survived by his sister, Juanita Cook of Livingston, Texas, two brothers, Robert Wood of Houston, Texas and E. John (Audrey) Wood of Wellsville as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ernie was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Eldred Wood, his sister in law, Ann Wood and his brother in law, Merle Cook.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 1 from 12:30 to 1:00 pm at the H.P. Smith & Son Funeral Home, 1607 Main St. Woodhull, NY. Funeral and committal services will follow there at 1:00 pm with his nephew, Rev. John Wood officiating.
Burial will be in Woodhull Cemetery.
Obituary: Sharon D. DuBois ,83 of Rexville
She was born March 15, 1937 the daughter of the late Alexander and Freida (Vanderhoef) Eichorn. Sharon was also preceded in death by her brothers Alexander Eichorn Jr and Darrel Eichorn as well as a Grandson, Sheldon and great granddaughter LaiLanie.
She is survived by her sisters Lilla Stone of Massachusetts and Nanette Eichorn of Missouri and a brother, Hugh Eichorn of Washington.
She is also survived by her children, Darlene (DuBois) Krisher of New York, Irving (Kim Kelly) DuBois of Nevada, Hope DuBois of New York and Dana DuBois of New York.
Other survivors include her grandchildren: Carol, James, Lee, Summer, Danielle, Josh, Shane, Matthew, Eric, Tiffany and Brittany. Greatgrandchildren: Stephanie, Miranda, Zachery, Elizabeth, Fernando, Jason, Gervacio, Asia, Nicole, Alanda, Kahbria, Zariah, Bentley and Alexander. Great greatgrandchildren: Paisley, Evelyn, Leo and Easton.
To send a remembrance to the family, please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or Facebook@brownpowersfh. The family is being assisted by Chester Gosper IV, Director at the Brown and Powers Funeral Home of Canisteo.
There will be no services. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery, Canisteo at the discretion of the Family
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