Coudersport-based state police Friday morning arrested Duane John Williams, 32, of Elkland. He was charged with 14 felony counts related to the sexual assault of a child. Here are the charges:
Arraigned in court, he was remanded to jail on $250,000 cash bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 13th.
Mr. Ames was born on May 16, 1963 in Wellsville to Arthur James and Wrexie Florence (Balcom) Ames. He was a 1981 graduate of Scio Central School. On December 25, 1997 in Scio he married Leona Jane Parker, who survives.
After several jobs in his younger years, Jim found his passion in serving as Town Judge for several municipalities while working full time as a sales representative for Eastern Metal and USA Sign in Elmira.
In addition to his wife of 26 years, Jim is survived by his daughter, Heather (Bubba) Farrow of Wellsville; his father, Arthur James “Jim” Ames of Scio; one sister, Betty (Tom) Harrington of Avon; two grandsons, Holden Perry and Tyler Farrow; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his mother, Wrexie Ames and his niece, Courtney Moore.
Jim was always there for his family and friends. He loved his two grandsons very much and enjoyed spending special times with them.
Jim was also very community oriented and served in many ways. Most notably, he joined the Scio Fire Department as a volunteer at 16 and over the years rose through the ranks to becoming Fire Chief. He will definitely be missed by all who knew him.
There will be a time of visitation on Tuesday (June 4) from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday (June 5) from 12-1 p.m. at the Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Scio/Wellsville. The memorial service will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home immediately following the visitation with Ron Washburn officiating. Burial will follow in Fairlawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to Scio Fire Department, 4359 County Road 10, Scio, NY 14880.
*Click on any of these links for complete information*
Pastured Poultry Workshop & Broiler Farm Tour
6/6/2024 - Please join us for the evening to learn about broiler production opportunities for small farms. Our host site will be Sunny Cove Farm in Alfred Station. There is no cost to attend, however pre-registration is requested by May 31st to assist with planning.
2024 Youth Tractor & Machinery Certification Program *Registration closing soon*
6/14/2024 - The 2024 4-H and FFA Tractor & Machinery Certification Program will be offered at the Cooperative Extension Center (5435 County Rd 48 Belmont, NY 14813) on June 14th from 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM and Cuba-Rushford HS (5476 Rt. 305, Cuba, NY 14727) on June 19 and 21 from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Simple Composting: Turn Waste Into Wealth Workshop
6/1/2024 - Ready to turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold? We've got just the event for you! Join us for a hands-on composting workshop where our master gardeners will teach you everything you need to know about creating rich, nutrient-filled compost for your garden.
Wetland Protection Changes in New York State
6/13/2024 - Under new rules to begin on January 1, 2025, the wetlands protected by New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC) will change. In the past, only certain wetlands that were mapped and of a minimum size were protected. While the maps will still be accessible for informational purposes, under the new regulations the NYSDEC will also regulate smaller wetlands known as "wetlands of unusual importance".
2024 National Agritourism Survey
Attention agritourism operations, if we can get over 50 operations in NY to respond to the survey then Penn State is going to create an individual response results for NY. Please consider completing the survey.
All agricultural operations that welcome visitors - whether for on-farm direct sales, educational programs, entertainment, farm stays, recreation, special events, and more - are invited to complete the survey.
By participating in this survey, you'll help us pinpoint the types of support farmers like you require - whether it's getting business assistance, developing networks, applying for grants, or navigating zoning and liability issues.
If you have questions about this survey, please contact Claudia Schmidt, Penn State Extension specialist (cschmidt@psu.edu)
NYS IPM Dairy and Livestock Pest News Blog
Featuring a range of content, including articles and informative videos, covering various pest-related topics. Stay updated with the latest research findings, real-time pest issues throughout the season, and IPM strategies specifically designed to manage flies, ticks, lice, and mites that affect livestock. Sign up now so you don't miss out on the latest updates!
AFT New York Advanced Soil Health Training
Now accepting applications for the New York regional Advanced Soil Health Training (ASHT)! Designed for corn, soybean, wheat, cotton, and dairy farmers and farm advisors who share an interest in improving soil health and who will share their expertise with their clients, communities, and the next generation of farmers. Use this link to access the application and review guidelines.
-On May 29th, 2024 at approximately 5:19PM, Cuba Police arrested Mark D. Lemay Jr. (45) of Gerry, NY. Lemay Jr. was arrested on an active warrant for fail to appear on charges of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th (Misdemeanor). Lemay Jr. was processed, placed in front of a judge and released with an order to pay fine.
-On May 23rd, 2024 at approximately 8:49PM, following a
report of a domestic dispute, Cuba Police arrested a juvenile of Cuba, NY. This
juvenile was arrested on charges of menacing 2nd (Misdemeanor). This juvenile
was processed and issued a family court appearance ticket to appear at a later
date. This juvenile is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
-On May 21st, 2024 at approximately 11:40PM, Cuba Police
arrested Irving B. Burkhardt (19) of Cuba, NY. Burkhardt was arrested on
charges of operating a motor vehicle with no or insufficient lights (Violation)
and aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd (Unclassified Misdemeanor). Burkhardt
was issued citations and released to appear at a later date. Burkhardt is
presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
On May 30th, 2024, at approximately 9:40am, following a report of a 911 hang up, Cuba Police arrested Richard D. Joy (38) of Black Creek, NY. Joy was arrested on an active warrant issued out of Erie County. While executing this arrest warrant Joy became combative and was charged with resisting arrest (Misdemeanor) and obstruction of governmental administration (Misdemeanor). Joy was processed, placed in front of a judge and released to appear at a later date. Joy was then turned over to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. Joy is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Connect to Life through Uniper Cares
Free Technology Program Assists Older Adults Thrive-in-Place
Ardent Solutions, in partnership with Age-Friendly Allegany County, is pleased to introduce a new resource aimed at enhancing the well-being of older adults, fostering new interests, and nurturing social connections. Uniper Cares offers a seamless solution for individuals seeking to stay engaged and connected.
Sheila Kalkbrenner, the Digital Literacy and Wellness Coordinator at Ardent Solutions, emphasizes the innovative impact of technology on older adults' engagement and connectivity with the world. Uniper Cares, a nationally acclaimed initiative, is easily accessible to older adults and caregivers within the comfort of their homes.
The challenges of social isolation and loneliness among older adults can hinder their ability to age in place independently. Uniper Cares, akin to a Roku stick in functionality, can be plugged into a smart TV, granting access to a diverse range of programs such as exercise and art classes, virtual field trips, support networks, games, and more. Moreover, Uniper can be used to communicate with family, friends, healthcare providers, and other essential services, providing a comprehensive platform for interaction.
Kalkbrenner underscores that Uniper Cares is tailored for older adults unfamiliar with technology. The device can be easily connected to a television or downloaded onto a computer or tablet. A user-friendly remote control is included for effortless navigation. In cases where individuals lack a smart TV or compatible device, Ardent Solutions offers equipment loans, internet access, and financial support for Uniper Cares subscriptions.
In addition, caregivers can utilize Uniper Cares as a valuable resource while caring for their loved ones. Caregiver programs are integrated into the array of services offered by Uniper Cares, fostering a sense of connection for caregivers globally and within their local communities.
For further information on Uniper Cares or to enroll in this complimentary program, individuals are encouraged to reach out to Kalkbrenner at kalkbrenners@ardentnetwork.org or call 585-610-3830 or complete a self-referral at Ardent Solutions, Inc. | Uniper (unipercare.com).
The friendly team at Ardent Solutions will visit older adults and caregivers at their homes, facilitate the enrollment process, and install Uniper Cares. Participants will receive training on using the device and a comprehensive demonstration of its functions.
The support extends beyond installation. Ardent Solutions' team will maintain communication with participants to ensure the technology functions effectively, address any questions and concerns, and provide updates on the continually expanding programs and services offered through Uniper Cares.
If you are part of a community group, like the Lions Club, Rotary, or part of a faith-community, and you would like to learn more about Uniper Cares or would like to request a presentation, please contact Ms. Kalkbrenner at 585-610-3830. Uniper Cares is funded in part through a grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.
FRIDAY...
* WHAT...Temperatures in the mid 30s will result in frost formation.
* WHERE...Southern Erie and Wyoming counties and the western Southern Tier.
* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 7 AM EDT Friday.
* IMPACTS...Frost could kill sensitive outdoor vegetation if left
unprotected.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.
There is a limit of 2 TVs per household.
TVs contain many hazardous materials which can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. By recycling your TV, you can help to protect the environment and keep our community clean.
For more information, please call Tim Palmiter, Recycling Coordinator at 585-268-7282.
BATH, NY – The Steuben County Public Health Department and partners are sharing updated overdose data for April 2024: 18 overdoses were reported, 0 fatalities were reported, and 5 instances of Narcan administration were cited.
“Public health and its partners are working hard to continue the trend of lowering opioid overdoses” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “We continue to urge all residents to seek support for substance use. Free and confidential help is available 24/7 by calling 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or text HOPENY (467369).”
In April, two of Steuben’s overdose records cited opioids as a suspected drug causing the overdose. Ten overdose records did not note a specific substance or were not able to be accessed for a full review, and the remaining 6 records indicated another substance was suspected to be the cause of an overdose. Other reported substances included alcohol, prescription drugs, and others.
Narcan training is available at https://www.steubencountyny.
Local support is available. Steuben County Substance Abuse Services (SCASAS) offers outpatient services in Bath (607-664-2156), Corning (607-937-6201), and Hornell (607-324-2483) as well as after-hours services (607-937-7800). CASA Trinity in Hornell (607-282-5200) and Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital in Bath offer detox and inpatient services as well. Residents are also encouraged to call 211 for other local support.
For the latest Steuben County updates, visit Steuben County’s website at https://www.steubencountyny.
UR/Jones Memorial Hospital and the Ridgewalk & Run Committee are pleased to host the 32nd Annual RidgeWalk & Run, Sunday, October 20th. With a long reputation of being the premier outdoor event in New York’s Southern Tier, RidgeWalk & Run appeals to all levels of fitness. Participants select from five (5) walking choices ranging from 2 miles to 25 kilometers, or from three (3) competitive trail runs that include a 5K, 10k and 25K. A “one day pass” with the cooperation from over 50 landowners, allows all participants to weave their way along spectacular remote trails to a rural farm setting and over the highest peaks in Western New York with tremendous views of the fall foliage. A festive finish line tent will be waiting for you at the finish line that treats finishers to lunch, live music, health and wellness exhibits, and more. Swag bags and commemorative T-shirts are limited. Register now at www.ridgewalk.com or https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Wellsville/Ridgewalkandrun
New York State Police Blotter
5/30/24 4:14 a.m.- State Police report the arrest of
Michael J. Davison, 37, of Andover. He was charged with felony driving while
ability impaired by drugs. A court appearance is pending.
5/29/24 12:26 p.m.- State Police investigated a one
vehicle crash on I-86 in the Town of Avoca. Troopers report one injury. The
driver was listed as Russell J. Nunmaker, 76, of Bolivar. The crash was closed
by investigation.
NWPS will be accessible at https://water.noaa.gov. The former AHPS link (water.weather.gov) will redirect to this new page for a limited time. Again, please update any of your bookmarks.
The event sponsored by the Steuben County Cornell Cooperative Extension (SCCCE) includes 10-minute-long stations set to begin at 10 am, other educational opportunities and lunch.
“Dairy and farming has historically been an integral part of Steuben County and remains so today,” said Tess McKinley SCCCE Executive Director. “This is a great opportunity to show our students just how important it is.”
Funding for the event is provided by Upstate Farms, Steuben County Farm Bureau, Prattsburgh Marketplace, and NYS Dairy in the Classroom.
Organizations expected to be present at the event include the Steuben County Farm Bureau, Prattsburgh Library, Prattsburgh FFA, SNAP Ed SFL, 4-H, DEC, and Empire Livestock LLC.
For more information call (607) 664-2300.
Kevin Snyder, age 32, was arrested on May 13th, 2024 by members of the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office and the Mount Morris Police Department. A Livingston County Superior Court indictment warrant charged Snyder with two counts of Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree (class D felonies) and two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree (also class D felonies). The arrest culminated an investigation into the sale of methamphetamine in the Village of Mount Morris. The investigation was handled by the Livingston County Drug Task Force.
Snyder was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing and prearrangement detention. The offenses did qualify for pre-arraignment detention under the NYS Justice Reform Act; however, a Judge may not set bail and the individual must be released.
Snyder was later arraigned by Judge Kevin VanAllen in the Livingston County Court. Snyder was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses under the NYS Justice Reform Act. Snyder is scheduled to be back in Livingston County Court at a later date for additional proceedings.
The Livingston County Public Defender’s Office was present and represented Snyder at the court arraignment for his defense. The Livingston County District Attorney’s Office was notified and appeared to represent the People.
The Livingston County Drug Task Force is comprised of members of the following agencies, the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, the Avon Police Department, the Caledonia Police Department, the Geneseo Police Department, the Dansville Police Department, the Mount Morris Police Department, the Nunda Police Department, the State University of Police at Geneseo, and the Livingston County District Attorney’s Office.
If you have information regarding illegal drug activity in or around Livingston County, please call us on our tip line at 844-LCSO-TIP or online at www.livingstoncounty.us/sheriff under the TIP LINE. You may remain anonymous.
New York State Police Blotter
5/28/24 12:07 p.m.- State Police arrested Brian A. McDonald, 34, of Belfast. He was charged with felony burglary of a dwelling with explosives or a deadly weapon, felony grand larceny of a firearm and criminal mischief. Arraigned in court, he was remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $5,000 cash.
Harold Douglas Worthington, 86, of 9138 County Road 7B, Rushford, passed away Monday, May 27, 2024 at home after a lengthy illness.
Born on July 6, 1937, in Cuba, he was a son of Harold E. and Elizabeth Park Worthington. On November 13, 1959 he married the former Elizabeth Clark and together they shared 65 years of marriage.
Doug and his family grew up on the family farm on Route 243 in Rushford until the passing of his father. He attended Rushford Central School and also took courses from the American School of Correspondence.
Starting to work at a young age, he was a farm hand for Will Gilmore until he was 17. He then went to work at the Knife Factory in Franklinville for 9 months before going to work for Aronson Machine Shop in Arcade, where he helped in the construction of the new plant and once that was complete, he went to work inside the plant running a radio arm drill press. He also tried his hand at making cheese for the Borden Food Company.
In January of 1963, he went to work at the Rushford Central School as a Custodian and School Bus Driver. After fifteen years, he was promoted to Transportation Supervisor retiring on December 31, 1994 at the age of 57. In retirement, he continued driving bus and maintained his certification as a 19A instructor providing bus drivers with certification programs and road tests. His final retirement was at age 71, with a total of 45 years driving school bus.
Doug was involved with his community as well. He taught NRA hunter safety courses for 45 years, served as a trustee at the First Baptist Church of Rushford, was a town councilman from 1982 until 2012, and at one time was a trustee and sexton for the White Cemetery in Rushford. He also enjoyed electrical work, gun smithing and worked throughout the years for the Rushford Labor Day Committee.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son Harold D. (Lisa) Worthington of Lexington, Kentucky; 3 Daughters, Laura (Richard) Dibble of Cuba, Beth (Tom) Ertsgaard of State College, PA, Joy (Timothy) Mansfield of Rushford; 13 Grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, 3 sisters Rosealie (Dwight) Hayes of Rocky Mount, VA and twin sisters Jeanette Worthington of Asheville, NC and Janice (David) Schuster of Rocky Mount, VA; Several Nieces and Nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Dennis, Richard, Timothy, Thomas, and Robert.
Friends are invited to a Funeral Service at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull Street, Cuba on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 11:00 A.M.
Pastor Jerry Clark, Doug’s brother-in-law, and Pastor Tanner Dibble, Doug’s grandson will co-officiate.
Burial will be in White Cemetery, Rushford, New York.
Memorials may be made to the Balcolm Beach Bible Fellowship, 8985 Main Street, Rushford, New York 14777.
Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.
The District 4 meeting is scheduled for June 4, 7 pm, at the Andover Village Hall. District 4 includes the town and village of Wellsville and Andover.
DISTRICT IV Legislators
Barnes, Gary R.
gary.barnes@alleganyco.gov
Wellsville, NY 14895
Standing committees: Human Services, Planning & Economic Development, Public Safety, Public Works, Resource Management, Budget
Havey, Steven A.
steven.havey@alleganyco.gov
Wellsville, NY
Standing committees: Personnel, Planning & Economic Development, Public Safety, Space Needs, Ways & Means
Rumfelt, James M.
james.rumfelt@alleganyco.gov
Andover, NY 14806
Standing committees: Human Services, Personnel, Public Safety, Budget
The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo announced Tuesday it plans to close or merge one-third of its 160 Western New York parishes. The list of affected parishes is expected to be finalized by September 1 with the formal actions to begin in October. Buffalo Bishop Michael Fisher made the announcement. Their plans, according to a press release, are not specific to particular parishes across Western New York’s eight counties, but “became apparent following a comprehensive and collaborative planning process directed by its Road to Renewal division.”
BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that David Lettieri, 36, of Harpursville, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of enticement of a minor, was sentenced to serve 240 months by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Bonanno and Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that in October 2020, Lettieri traveled from Broome County to meet a 13-year-old girl (victim) in a park in Wyoming County with the intent of having sexual intercourse, however sexual contact did not occur. Subsequent investigation recovered communications between Lettieri and the victim, including photos of the victim on Lettieri’s phone. Investigators also searched Lettieri’s Facebook account and recovered conversations between Lettieri, the Victim, and the Victim’s sister, which were sexual in nature. The Victim’s age was also revealed during the conversations.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Gregory J. Rudolph, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
ALBANY – Francisco “Frank” Morales, a decorated veteran of United States Army and director of the Military Aligned Student Program at St. Bonaventure University, was inducted into the New York State Senate’s Veterans’ Hall of Fame today at a ceremony in Albany.
Master Sgt. Francisco Morales (Ret.) was nominated by Senator George Borrello in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the nation and fellow veterans. The annual recognition established in 2005 is bestowed upon a veteran from each Senate District in the state who has not only served valiantly in the military but has also made outstanding contributions on behalf of their community as a civilian.
“Frank Morales enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman and served 20 years with tremendous distinction, ultimately attaining the rank of Master Sergeant. Among his many awards is the Silver Star Medal, which was bestowed for his heroic actions on August 26, 2006, when Morales's unit was ambushed by over 60 Taliban. Morales was able to lead his men through the battle and save four wounded soldiers,” said Senator Borrello.
“The motto of the U.S. Army is ‘This We’ll Defend.’ It’s a vow that Frank Morales embraced as an active member of the military and as a civilian, in his role as Director of the St. Bonaventure Office of Veteran Service, where he mentors his fellow veterans and helps them prepare for a successful transition back into civilian life. It was my honor to be able to recognize him and have his story memorialized in the state’s history,” Senator Borrello said.
Senator Borrello noted that Mr. Morales’s Army tenure also included deployments in the Balkans, Africa, and twice to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Morales's final U.S. Army assignment was to St. Bonaventure as a senior Military Science instructor in the university’s Army ROTC program.
In addition to receiving the Silver Star Medal for his valor, he also received the Bronze Star for meritorious service in combat. After 20 years of service, he received numerous awards for achievement and earned the Combat and Expert Infantry Badges, the Parachutist Badge, the Pathfinder Badge, and the Drill Sergeant Badge.
After concluding his Army tenure, Mr. Morales attended graduate school, earning a Master of Mental Health Counseling, and working in counseling for several years before becoming the Director of the St. Bonaventure Office of Veteran Services.
“Frank is an incredible leader, and we are fortunate to have him leading our Military Aligned Program that supports Veterans and their families. He is an advocate for all Veterans and a valuable resource throughout the southern tier,” said Bernard Valento, Vice President for Enrollment, St. Bonaventure University.
He has also created a legacy at St. Bonaventure, with two of his sons graduating from the university and being inducted into the university’s ROTC Hall of Fame.
Currently, Frank spends his time helping veterans in all aspects of life. He is also a mentor for community veteran programs in western NY and is sought after for his expertise. He currently lives in Portville, New York, with his wife Crystal and his children Christian, Julian, and Isabella.
Senator Borrello will honor Mr. Morales at a special ceremony at St. Bonaventure University at a date which will be announced.
City of Olean Fire Department
Press Release
Crews stretched a hose line and made entry into the garage, and water was on the fire at 1:21 p.m.
One patient was evaluated on scene for smoke inhalation by Trans Am Ambulance Service. No other injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire was deemed unintentional, due to improperly discarded smoking material.
The City of Olean Fire Department was assisted on scene by the Olean Police Department, Trans Am Ambulance, and Deputy 4 Coordinator. Weston Mills was on standby for city coverage during the fire.
In response to alarming trends indicating a rise in suicides across the region, the local Public Health Departments of the Pivital Public Health Partnership (Chemung, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, and Yates counties) partnered to launch a suicide prevention campaign. This initiative, modeled after the successful #BeThe1To campaign, targets at-risk populations in our region including first responders, older adults, men, and veterans.
Michele Foster, Executive Director of Pivital Public Health Partnership, expressed her optimism for the campaign, stating: "We are proud to launch this collaborative effort aimed at addressing the urgent issue of suicide prevention within our communities. By leveraging the power of partnerships and drawing upon the insights of local experts, we believe we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those most at risk."
Recent data has revealed a concerning increase in suicide rates within our communities, underscoring the urgent need for proactive measures to address mental health challenges. Drawing on insights from local suicide prevention coalitions and mental health officials, the collaborative effort seeks to provide targeted support and resources to those at higher risk for suicide.
One of the central features of the campaign is the integration of the newly established 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, offering immediate access to trained professionals for those in need of urgent assistance. This three-digit number, designated for mental health emergencies, ensures swift and effective response to individuals experiencing crises.
The suicide prevention campaign will encompass a range of targeted outreach efforts, educational initiatives, and community engagement events designed to reach and empower its intended audience. By fostering a culture of compassion, understanding, and resilience, the campaign aims to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and ultimately save lives.
Foster emphasized the importance of community involvement in driving positive change, adding, "Through collective action and a shared commitment to mental health advocacy, we can create a safer, more supportive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges."
The suicide prevention campaign will utilize targeted outreach efforts, educational initiatives, and community engagement events to reach its intended audience. By harnessing the strength of community partnerships and the proven success of the #BeThe1To campaign model, the Public Health Departments of the Pivital Public Health Partnership aim to empower individuals to reach out a helping hand if they suspect someone they know is struggling. The campaign invites community members to get involved by participating in awareness events, sharing resources, and engaging in open conversations about mental health. Community involvement is crucial in shaping a future where mental wellness is prioritized and stigma is eliminated.
Together, we can save lives and foster hope.
New York State Police Blotter
5/27/24 5:34 p.m.- After investigating the larceny of
a vehicle in the town of Wirt, state police arrested Deborah C. Cass, 42, of
Friendship. She was charged with felony second-degree criminal possession of stolen
property valued at more than $50,000. A court appearance is pending.
Robert Charles Cole of Wellsville passed away Tuesday May 21st at his home peacefully with family by his side.
Born September 8th, 1942 ,he was the son of Albert D Cole and Eva Olmsted Cole. Bob was employed by Worthington and then Dresser Rand as a machinist and as a Union director until his retirement.
Bob is survived by his wife Donna, two sons Kevin Cole and Kelly Cole, two daughters Kendra Cole and Katrina Harris and three stepdaughters Teresa Silverberg, Stefanie Osgood and Debbie Doucette, his brother Fred Cole and sister Ellen Carney and also several grandchildren and great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews
In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a daughter Kristy Shrubb, two sisters Lyla Monahan and Marion Cole, a brother Rodney Cole and two nieces, Lisa Cole and Koney Monahan.
Bob was a Navy Veteran, an avid fisherman and hunter. He could be found during hunting season at "the cabin" enjoying stories with the guys. He was also a member of the Elks Club in Wellsville.
He will be remembered for his great personality and anyone who met him came away with a new friend.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Date: Monday May 27, 2024
Wellsville Police arrested Tyler W. Cowburn, age 29 of Wellsville, charging him with Grand Larceny 3rd (Class D Felony), Unauthorized use of a Vehicle 3rd (Class A Misdemeanor) and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 3rd (Unclassified Misdemeanor). The charges stem from an incident that took place on East Genesee Street. Cowburn was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice Thompson. Cowburn was released under pre-trial supervision by the Allegany County Probation Department. Cowburn is due back in Wellsville Village Court on June 18th at 4:30 pm. Cowburn has previously been arrested multiple times for stealing motor vehicles (several in the Village of Wellsville), Wellsville Police are reminding residents to lock your vehicles and homes and to not keep the keys to your unsecured vehicles inside them.
Wellsville Police arrested Samuel S. Russo, age 44 of Wellsville, charging him with Criminal Mischief 4th (Class A Misdemeanor). The charge stems from an incident that took place on Chestnut Street. Russo was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice Thompson. Russo was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court on June 18th at 4:30 pm.
Date: Friday May 24, 2024
Wellsville Police arrested Ashley J. Taber, age 35 of Wellsville, charging her with Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor). The charge stems from an incident that took place on Trapping Brook Road on May 11th. Taber was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice Thompson. Taber was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court on June 18th at 4:30 pm.
People are strange when you're a stranger. Luckily for Mike, he never met a stranger. Every person he spoke to became a fast friend. Mike loved talking to people about music, weightlifting, and his glorious fish tank. He was passionate about sports, especially his favorite football teams, Penn State and the Steelers, and was a proud long time Galeton School Board member. He also loved being outdoors, having bonfires surrounded by his family, friends, pets, and garden, especially his beautiful marigolds.
Mike was a lifetime resident of Galeton PA. He went to school in Johnstown PA and became a first-rate accountant.
He is survived by his daughter Melanie (Chad) Shuemaker; his grandson, Matthew McCullough; and his loving friends who became his chosen family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deborah Johnson; his cherished daughter, Amy Johnson; and his parents, Robert “Pete” and Phyllis Johnson; all of whom we take comfort in knowing he is with now.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to United Cerebral Palsy at www.ucp.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
May 27, 2024 Memorial Day “A Day to remember our fallen veterans”.
Although the weather limited the Morrison Hayes Post 702 Wellsville American Legion Family from doing services at Veteran Memorial Park, services were held at Post 702, 23 Jefferson Street, Wellsville, NY and attended by approximately 100 people.
Michael Hennessy, Allegany County Veterans Service Officer was master of ceremonies presiding over the somber service. He announced the veterans from the Wellsville area that passed away during the past year.
Wreaths were placed by the Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion Family, Wellsville BPOE Elks, Frank B Church VFW, Wellsville Moose Lodge and the Wellsville Fire Department.
The Morrison Hayes American Legion Color Guard stood at attention and the Firing Squad did a 21 gun salute with taps being played for our fallen veterans.
From Kate Martelle: May 31st!! Our local premiere at the David A Howe Library! It’s going to be lots of fun!
Red carpet opens at 6:30pm with professional photographer (Dress fancy or not it’s up to you!)
Film starts at 7pm
Refreshments and drinks with the cast and crew after!
We also have 2 announcements we’ll be making!
Can’t wait to see you all there!
5/26/24 11:57 a.m.- State Police arrested Adrian J.
Kuna, 46, of Wirt. He was charged with felony menacing police, two counts of
felony criminal possession of a weapon and menacing with a weapon. Arraigned in
court, he was remanded to the Allegany County Jail without bail. He will return
to town of Wirt court on June 19th.
Winifred “Wendy” Maue Anderson Wetzel “former Olean, NY resident”
FAIRPORT, NY---Winifred Maue Anderson Wetzel, 92, of Fairport, formerly of Olean, NY, passed away with her daughter by her side on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in the Fairport Baptist Home in Monroe County, NY.
Born on Thursday, March 3, 1932 in Buffalo, she was a daughter of Gilbert and Gladys Pilet Maue. She had been married to Robert F. Anderson with whom she had three children, all of whom graduated from Olean High School. She was later married to Everett Glenn Wetzel who passed away in 2019.
She was a graduate of Orchard Park High School. Wendy was a Korean War veteran serving in the Women’s Army Corps, having been stationed in Japan. She had been employed by the former McGraw Edison Company in Olean.
Wendy was previously an active member of St. Mary’s Church in Olean, a Cub Scout leader and also a Girl Scout leader in Olean.
Surviving are a daughter, Kim Anderson (Campbell) formerly of Walworth, NY; a son, Ross Anderson of Utah; and five grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husbands, Wendy was predeceased by a son, Sean Anderson, who passed away in 2022.
In keeping with Wendy’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
Wendy entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Wendy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
