Paul Walter Gallmann was born on Halloween in 1937 at the family homestead on Basswood Hill in the Town of Allen. His parents were Walter Henry Gallmann and Helen Preston Gallmann. He graduated from Angelica Central School in 1955 and Alfred State in 1957. After two years with the Allegany County Soil Conservation District, he joined Gallmann Brothers Hardware in Belfast working for his Uncle Karl and Uncle Clyde Gallmann. He purchased part of the business in 1965 and was principal owner until the business passed on to his son Brett in the new century. Paul always thought his Uncles were great teachers in the hardware business, plumbing, heating, electrical and most importantly, the ways of life.
In 1960 he married Carol Thomas and “moved down to the city”—Angelica. Their first Anniversary was crowned with a draft notice in the mail that very day. Paul spent most of his next two years in his jeep driving Major Lynn around the Isthmus of Panama. Several lasting friendships were formed during those two years with the US Army. Returning home to Angelica he quickly became an integral part of the community joining the Angelica Fire Company in 1965, helping organize the first Rescue Squad in 1967, becoming Fire Chief in 1980 and remaining in that position for 25 years. During over 50 years in the Fire Service, he responded to over 5000 incidents from a cat up a tree to CPR and very serious accidents. Paul also was a certified EMT for 37 years while serving as Captain of the Rescue Squad for four years. That leadership and EMT work earned him the Harriet E. Weber EMS Leadership Award from New York State. Paul served as Allegany County Fire Coordinator for nine years and on the Angelica Town Board for over 30 years. Meanwhile the Hardware business grew with three stores – encompassing Belfast, Angelica and Cuba at one time. The Cuba store is currently still in service. Paul always felt he had the greatest Employees in the world. All of Paul’s accomplishments completely ignore the kindness and compassion that marked his personality. He was quiet, gentle and unassuming in all his dealings with people. Family and friends appreciated his passion for the community. All those who knew him will remember him for his storytelling. His memories will live on through stories. Paul is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carol, his two children Brett (Chris) Gallmann and Jill Gallmann Bennett. Grandchildren include Kara (Steve) Sutton, Ryan (Sheyenne) Gallmann, Tyler Bennett (Kasey), Noah Bennett (Lyn), Mackenzie Bennett, and Bailey Bennett. Great Grandchildren Teddy Sutton, Arlo Sutton and Archer Gallmann plus several nieces and nephews. Paul was predeceased by his brother, Alton (Betty) Gallmann. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Angelica Free Library and Allegany County Cancer Services or a charity of your choice.
The family will be present on Friday (October 4, 2024) from 1-3pm & 5-7pm at the Brown & Powers Funeral Home in Angelica, where a Funeral Service will be on Saturday (October 5, 2024) at 1:00pm with Pastor David Ford officiating. Burial will be at Until the Day Dawn Cemetery in Angelica. To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar today announced the acquisition of more than 1,200 acres in the town of Yorkshire, Cattaraugus County, to create the Blue Hill State Forest. The acquisition – the first State Forest added in the region since 1963 – will preserve critical open space and establishes the forest for watershed protection, timber production, and public recreation.
"Improving forest health is essential for safeguarding water quality, habitat, and opportunities for recreation and healthy, well-managed forests are also an important tool in New York’s ongoing efforts to mitigate for and adapt to climate change," Interim Commissioner Mahar said. "Thanks to the dedication of DEC's conservation partners, this historic acquisition will allow residents and visitors in northern Cattaraugus County the opportunity to see first-hand the development of a healthy and sustainably managed forest and the benefits it provides to our environment and communities."
The property contains forests, ponds, fields, and access to Cattaraugus Creek, and was operated as Bluemont Ski Resort until 1979. DEC’s acquisition will provide increased recreational opportunities for the public, expand wildlife habitat, support ecosystem health, and conserve natural resources. Blue Hill State Forest will be managed under DEC’s Cattaraugus Unit Management Plan. Immediate plans for the property are to post and sign the boundaries, remove the old ski resort buildings, and conduct a full property assessment.
DEC acquired the property for $2.1 million from landowner Kingbrook Funding, LLC, through the State's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). Among the many environmental victories in the enacted 2024-25 State Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders maintained the historically high level of $400 million in EPF funding. The EPF supports climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, improves agricultural resources to promote sustainable agriculture, protects water sources, advances conservation efforts, and provides recreational opportunities for New Yorkers. The EPF also supports New York’s 30x30 initiative, which commits to conserving 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030.
Eric J. LUCE, 38, of Genesee, PA, died Saturday, September 28, 2024 in his home. Friends may call at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with a Memorial Service following at 11:00 AM. Rev. Dennis Munro will officiate. A complete obituary will be announced. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com
Denise A. “Denny” DEAN, 67, of Galeton, PA, died peacefully Saturday, September 28, 2024 in Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, Towanda Campus. Born June 11, 1957, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Richmond and Evelyn Drake Dean. A graduate of Galeton Area High School, she was employed in the hotel industry and by Hamilton-Gibson Productions in Wellsboro. Denny was a former member of the Galeton Area Chamber of Commerce, served on the Galeton Borough Council, and attended the Niles Valley United Methodist Church. She was honored in 2022 with the creation of the Denny Dean Rose Garden next to the Galeton boro office. Surviving are: her domestic partner and love of her life of 28 years, Douglas Droppa; a son, Lanz Young; a grandson, Sebastian; a brother, Paul C. “Tubby” (Sharon) Dean; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Shirley A. Raub; and a brother, Richard Dean. A Memorial Service will be held in the Denny Dean Rose Garden in Spring 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Galeton Boro, (memo line—Denny Dean Rose Garden), 24 West Main Street, Galeton, PA 16922 for future care and maintenance of the rose garden. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed atwww.olneyfoust.com.
It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Billiejo H. LIAS, 64, of Westfield, PA, who passed Saturday, September 28, 2024. Born December 2, 1959, she was the daughter of Leon H. and Donna Lee Haskins Kibbe. On November 28, 1992, in Harrison Valley, she married Sean E. Lias, who predeceased her on August 22, 2015. A 1977 graduate of Northern Potter High School, she was employed by Electri-Cord, Corning Incorporated, and Viant. Billiejo loved planting flowers. Throughout the years, she rescued kittens in need, being a loving Mom to them all. She loved to travel to tropical areas to walk the beaches looking for seashells and having her feet in the sand. Surviving are: a sister, Penny (John) Sawicki of Bradford; nephew, Robert (Karen) Fuller; grandnieces and grandnephews, Kholten, Kaulier, Kenzingten, Kytalin, and Kaliope; nephew, Dennis (Cyndi) Fuller; grandnephews, Nouvelle, Lochlon, and Ty; a brother, Rick (Rachel) Kibbe of Harrison Valley; niece, Alonna; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ronald and Patricia Lias of Westfield; sister-in-law, Lori Murray of Elmira, NY; aunts, uncles, cousins, along with her friends who had the opportunity to experience her kind and friendly spirit. Friends may call at the Harrison Valley Christian & Missionary Alliance Church on Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM, followed by a graveside service in Ulysses Cemetery at 2:30 PM. Rev. Kevin Cornish will officiate. Memorials may be made to Northern Tier Veterinary Clinic, 101 Market St., Knoxville, PA 16928. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed atwww.olneyfoust.com.
Alan R. LEWIS, 75, of Rexville, NY, died Thursday, September 26, 2024 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville. Born September 26, 1949, in Hornell, he was the son of Robert F. and Doris Rogers Lewis. A 1968 graduate of Whitesville Central School, he studied forestry and conservation at BOCES from 1966 – 1968. He was employed by Ro-La Farms, Inc. Alan was always there for a good laugh. If anyone ever wanted to go for a ride or take a walk, Alan was the guy to see. He knew all the hidden gems in the area, especially Rock City in Olean. Alan enjoyed shed hunting and collecting rocks. Surviving are: his father, Robert (Amy) Lewis of Rexville; four brothers, Larry Lewis, Lyle (Donalea) Lewis, Paul Lewis, all of Rexville, and Jerry (Judy) Lewis of Whitesville; six sisters, Carol (George) Whitsell of Rexville, Beverly (Lawrence) Heine of Harrisonburg, VA, Cathy (Paul) Samuell of Sevierville, TN, Anita (Gerald) Heatwole of McGaheysville, VA, Charlene (Dale) Neuenschwander of Greenwood, and Sue (Norm) Olds of Andover; and many nieces and nephews who were all like children to him. He was predeceased by his mother; and a sister-in-law, Carol Lewis. Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory. Services will be private. Burial will be in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Samaritan’s Purse atwww.samaritanspurse.orgor West Union Mennonite Church, 1347 County Route 84, Rexville, NY 14877. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed atwww.olneyfoust.com.
AUSTIN, PA---Phyllis Elaine
Kio Gleason, a longtime resident of Austin, passed away at Geisinger Medical
Center, Danville, PA, on Saturday, September 28, 2024, after a short illness.
Born on June 11, 1945 in Coudersport,
she was the daughter of Bob O. Kio and Vera L. Clinton Kio.On April 29, 1961 in the E.U.B. Church in
Prouty, she married William “Bill” Gleason.They celebrated 50 years of marriage before his passing on April 10,
2012.
Phyllis attended Austin Area
School, Class of 1963.She was a young
wife and mother who often said she grew up with her kids!As a young mother, she was known for putting
the kids on the school bus and then heading out with her trusty 22 rifle to
knock down a couple of squirrels and make squirrel pot pie for dinner.
She was a “natural” dog
trainer.She could get a dog to do
anything, including sneeze on command and hold a piece of steak on their nose
until she signaled to let them know that they could eat the treat.All ofthe family pets loved her, she had a
natural affinity with animals.She,
along with her husband, Bill, owned and operated the Wharton General Store for
several years.She was the person that
coined the phrase “Do your Sportin’ in Wharton, PA”.Later they owned and operated a full-service
Exxon Station, the former Wm. Gleason & Sons, Main Street in Austin.Phyllis was the general manager at the former
El Rancho Grande’ for several years, located in Costello, PA.She also worked for many years at the former
Schumacher's Inn in Costello.
Phyllis was a lifelong member
of the East Fork Sportsmen’s Club.She
enjoyed woodworking with her husband Bill and was an avid seamstress and quilt
maker.All her children and grandchildren
have gorgeous handmade quilts sewn by Phyllis. She also altered and fitted the
wedding dresses of her granddaughters.Phyllis enjoyed traveling and loved the ocean!She went deep sea fishing many times off the
eastern seaboard and the Caribbean.She
traveled to Alaska several times and for many, many years went on an annual
“girls” trip to the ocean with her closest friends.
She enjoyed watching Major
League Baseball games, reading, Words with Friends, and puzzles.She loved spending time with her family,
especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.As several family friends stated, “she was a
gem, one of a kind and she will be sorely missed”.
Left to cherish her memory
are a daughter, Teresa J. “Teri” (Michael) Cooney of Austin, PA; two sons,
William J. “Bill” Gleason of Coudersport, PA and Samuel J. (Lori) Gleason of
Austin, PA; eight grandchildren, Joshua (Staci) Cooney of Muncy, PA, Chase (Hilary)
Cooney of Austin, PA, Megan (Bryan) Uhl of Kersey, PA, Kayla (Caleb) Nichols of
Coudersport, PA, Macy (Matt) Freeman of Scio, NY, Jarred (Lashella) Gleason of
Roulette, PA, Brock Belkowski of Emporium, PA, and Brady (Nick) Cressley of
Emporium, PA; twelve great-grandchildren, Carly and Carson Cooney of Austin,
PA, Liam and Amelia Cooney of Muncy, PA, Kolhson, Kason, and Aspen Uhl of
Kersey, PA, Sage and Kohen Nichols of Coudersport, PA, Myles and Lane Freeman
of Scio, NY, and Caroline Gleason of Sinnemahoning, PA; a brother, Douglas G.
Kio of Austin, PA; a sister, Bonnie S. (Arthur) Eckert of Austin, PA; and many
nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents
and husband, Phyllis was predeceased by a granddaughter, Amy Jean Cooney; a
brother, Robert O. Kio; a sister, Barbara Klimek Butz Freeman; and a
daughter-in-law, Wendy S. Gleason.
Family and friends are
invited to attend a gathering to celebrate Phyllis’ life at the East Fork
Sportsmen’s Club, East Fork Road, Austin, PA from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday,
November 2, 2024.
Flowers are gratefully
declined.Memorials in Phyllis’ name may
be made to the Austin Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 328, Austin, PA 16720;
to the McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton, PA 15066. Website: https://mcguirememorial.org/mcguire-memorial-foundation/
or to the Amyloidosis Foundation, 7151 N. Main St. Ste 2, Clarkston, MI
48346. Website: amyloidosis.org
Phyllis entrusted her
care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard
Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
To express condolences,
light a candle or share fond memory of Phyllis, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard
Funeral Home Facebook page.
Hornell, NY — The wait is over! Hornell Partners for Growth (HPG) is excited to announce the official Grand Opening Ceremony for Tim Hortons in Hornell. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 11, at 111 Seneca Street. Join Tim Hortons as they celebrate with free $10.00 fight cards for the first 100 customers and the next 200 will receive a free Tim Hortons Mug; also be sure to enjoy their delicious menu of premium coffee, baked goods, sandwiches, and more. This new location brings an iconic taste of Canada right to the heart of Hornell, and we’re thrilled they have become a part of the local community; and HPG would like to thank them for their Silver-level donation to HPGs 5th Annual Maple City Fall Festival, and look forward to them setting up as a vendor during the event. Come be a part of the celebration and experience what makes Tim Hortons a favorite destination for coffee lovers! Additionally, Time Hortons will start the celebration a few days early with these special offers:
(The Port Allegany and Allegany County Shrine club with the $5,000 donation presentation)
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity, the Allegany County Shrine and the Port Allegany Veterans Memorial Inc. of Port Allegany, PA have successfully raised over $6,000 to support the Shrine hospital. This remarkable effort underscores the power of collaboration and the deep-rooted commitment of these organizations to giving back.
The fundraising event, held on Thursday September 26, saw an outpouring of support from the local Veterans organization who served a wonderful Prime Rib dinner at the Shrine Clubs monthly meeting followed by the Shrines annual auction to raise money for the Shrine Children’s Hospital.
The Allegany County Shrine thanks the Port Allegany Veterans organization for its generous gift of $5,000. The event was a resounding success, with participants expressing their joy and pride in contributing to such a worthy cause.
The Shrine hospital, known for its exceptional care and support for children with specialized medical needs, will benefit greatly from this donation. The funds will be used to enhance medical facilities, provide advanced treatments, and support families in need.
As the community reflects on this achievement, there is a renewed sense of hope and solidarity. The Allegany County Shrine and Port Allegany Veterans organizations have set a powerful example of how collective efforts can make a significant impact. Their dedication and hard work have not only raised funds but also strengthened the bonds within the community.
(Port Allegany Veterans Memorial Inc. kitchen staff and officers of the Veterans post)
GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE PREPARATIONS IN ANTICIPATION OF POTENTIAL STRIKE ACTION AT U.S. EAST AND GULF COAST PORTS
State Moving Essential Goods To Protect Working Families
Hospitals Reminded To Stockpile PPE
Home Heating Oil, Gasoline and Diesel To Be Unaffected During Possible Strike
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State entities are actively preparing ahead of a possible strike at ports from Maine to Texas beginning October 1, as negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) are ongoing.
“As conversations between the ILA and USMX continue with a deadline of October 1, New York is prepared to support working families if a strike occurs,” Governor Hochul said. “As the deadline looms, I urge the USMX and the ILA to come to an agreement that respects workers and ensures commerce can continue through our nation’s busiest ports here in New York.”
The potential strike is not anticipated to affect petrochemical goods including home heating oil, gasoline and diesel, as well as municipal solid waste in the Port of New York and New Jersey. Cruise ships would be unaffected. Governor Hochul has directed New York State agencies and authorities to prepare in the event of a strike action, and these preparations include:
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
PANYNJ has been actively preparing for the possible event of a strike at the Port, which is the largest on the eastern seaboard. The Port Authority has been working closely with the commercial trucking industry to ensure cargo containing essential goods, medical supplies, and food products that have already been offloaded are moved out of Port facilities and to their final destinations. Additionally, the Port has communicated with the ILA regarding appropriate protest areas to protect free speech.
Upstate Ports
We do not anticipate that Upstate ports including Albany, Coeymans, Oswego and Buffalo will be impacted by a strike.
Department of Health
In anticipation of a potential disruption to the medical products supply chain, New York State Department of Health has communicated with hospitals and nursing homes across New York State and reminded them of the requirement to maintain a 60-day stockpile of personal protective equipment and other critical goods. DOH and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will remain in regular communication with health care providers to monitor any supply chain impacts and redeploy resources, as necessary.
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management is closely monitoring the situation and is coordinating with state agencies on any potential resource deployments. Additionally, all state stockpiles are prepared to deploy any available resources including generators in the event they are needed.
NOTICE OF LOCAL VOTER REGISTRATION IN ALLEGANY COUNTY
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Art 4 Sec 119 of the New York State Election Law that
Local Voter Registration will be on Thursday, October 10, 20024 from 8:30am to 9pm, at the
following site:
Board of Elections
8 Willets Ave
Belmont, NY.
9/29/24 2:20 p.m.- After investigating an incident in
the village of Andover, state police arrested Jake D. Rood, 30, of Wellsville.
He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and will appear in court
later.
9/30/24 2:28 a.m.- After responding to a complaint in
Belfast, state troopers arrested Jenna Rae Holly, 39, of Wellsville She was
charged with third-degree menacing and held for arraignment.
NEWS FROM MORRISON HAYES POST 702 WELLSVILLE AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY
On Monday, September 30th, 2024, Morrison Hayes Post 702 Wellsville American Legion held a groundbreaking ceremony to commence construction being done by Kinley Contractors, to its current building. The (29’ X 11’) 320 square-foot expansion is designed to create additional space while promoting the health, well-being, and overall support of all American Veterans, ensuring they have access to the resources and care they deserve.
Pictured from left to right are: Nick Wesley, Kinley Contractors, Morrison Hayes Post 702 Legion Members: Kris Green, James Helms, Commander Yvonne Simmons, Brent Roberts and Tom Farmer.
“The groundbreaking ceremony represents an exciting new chapter of organizational growth for the Wellsville American Legion Family and is direct proof that when we stick together, anything is possible,” said Yvonne Simmons, Post 702 Wellsville American Legion Commander.
.
The Wellsville American Legion, with more than 1,500 members, is committed to shared causes within the Wellsville community and across Allegany County.
Unit 702 American Legion Auxiliary will be sponsoring the first breakfast of the 2024-2025 year on October 6th, 2024. Come and enjoy a warm buffet breakfast.
Save the date of March14th, 2024 to attend music in the newly added social quarters at Post 702 after St. Patrick’s shortest day parade. Details will follow.
Wellsville Police
arrested Riley Dawkins Jr, age 44 of Beaumont, TX, charging him with DWI
(Unclassified Misdemeanor), DWI w/BAC of .08% or more (Unclassified
Misdemeanor), No/Inadequate Lights (Infraction) and Failed to use signal Lights
(Infraction).The charges stem from a
traffic stop on South Main Street.Dawkins was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released to a
third party.Dawkins is due to appear in
Wellsville Village Court on October 15th at 4:30 pm.
Wellsville Police
arrested Darren M. Dickerson, age 27 of Wellsville, charging him with DWI
(Unclassified Misdemeanor), DWI w/BAC of .08% or more (Unclassified
Misdemeanor) and No/Inadequate Lights (Infraction).The charges stem from a traffic stop on South
Main Street.Dickerson was processed,
issued an appearance ticket and released to a third party.Dickerson is due to appear in Wellsville
Village Court on October 15th at 4:30 pm.
Date: Friday September 27, 2024
Wellsville Police
arrested Lance A. Dodge, age 52 of Wellsville, charging him with Criminal
Mischief 3rd (Class E Felony).
The charge stems from an incident that took place on Pine Street on
September 12th. Dodge was
processed, issued an appearance ticket and released. Dodge is due to appear in Wellsville Village
Court on October 15th at 4:30 pm
Gail E. Bartas: Loving Mother, Grandmother, Friend
Gail E. Bartas, 85, of
Friendship, passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Jones Memorial Hospital
after a brief illness.
Born on November 3, 1938,
in Lackawanna, she was the daughter of Gordon B. and Betty G. (Taylor)
Chilcott.
Gail was a graduate of
Orchard Park Central School and Alfred State University where she received a
degree in Animal Husbandry.
She had been employed by
Acme Electric in Cuba and later worked for Friendship Dairies as a Lab
Technician prior to her retirement.
Gail was a member of the
Allegany County Saddle Dusters and was their trail boss for many years, was
active with the Cuba Driftbusters Snowmobile Club where she served on the Board
of Directors for 20 plus years and also was also part of the sign crew in Friendship
with her longtime friend Joe Hurtubise.She served as President of the Allegheny County Federation of
Snowmobilers for 15 years and just recently stepped down to Vice
President.One of her greatest
accomplishments was being named 2018 Snowmobiler of the year by the NYS
Snowmobile Association.For many years
she delivered meals on wheels, was involved with the Friendship Senior Citizens,
and was a pitcher for a Woman’s softball league.
She loved horseback
riding, snowmobile riding, reading, traveling in her younger years and spending
time with all of her friends.
Gail is survived by a son Steven
(Joan) Bartas of East
Smethport, PA; 3 Daughters Donna
(Steve) Bunce of Spencer,
NY, Joyce (Kelly) McGarry of Wind Gap, PA, Carol Brown of Limestone; 8 grandchildren, 15 great
grandchildren & was expecting a great grandson any day, 2 great great
grandchildren with on one the way; a Brother Alton Chilcott of Orchard Park.
Friends will be received
at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull Street
Cuba, on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 5-7 P.M.A brief committal service will be held at 7 P.M. in the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials
may be made to the Cuba Driftbusters or Allegany County Federation of Snowmobilers,
P.O. Box 11, Cuba, New York 14727.
Hornell - Paul F. Stiles, 87, a resident of Edgeview Estates, passed away Friday (Sept. 27, 2024) at Highland Park Nursing Center in Wellsville.Born in Hornell, Feb. 6, 1937, he was the son of Edwin and Alice Dyke Stiles. Paul had resided his entire life in Hornell. He had been employed for many years as an Upholster at Gunlocke in Wayland. He was a member of Hillside Baptist Church. Paul will be remembered as a wonderful loving husband to Donna for 66 years, and a fun loving and caring father, grandfather and great grand father. He truly was a friend to everyone he ever met. He was predeceased by his parents, his grandson Phillip Stiles Jr. in 1985, his son, Phillip Stiles in 2023, as well 6 sisters, 4 brothers, and his daughter-in-law, Maria Stiles. Surviving are his wife Donna DeCook Stiles of Hornell, his daughter, Kathy (Rick) Bates of Hornell, and 3 sons, Kenneth (Christina) Stiles of Hornell, Paul (Yvette Campbell) of Florida and Daniel Stiles of Hornell, 10 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Several Nieces and Nephews. Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Tuesday (October 1, 2024) at the Hillside Baptist Church at 1;30 pm 805 County Route 66, Hornell, NY Pastor Craig Brittingham will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Fremont. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bender-Brown & Powers Funeral Home of Hornell.
AUSTIN, PA---Phyllis E. Gleason, 79, of Austin passed away surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.
Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
9/28/24 12:29 p.m.- State Police arrested Glen H. Hoehn, 52, of Andover. He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child. A court appearance is pending.
9/28/24 8:42 p.m.- After investigating an incident in Cuba, troopers arrested Angel Lee Lycett of Portville and charged with three counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child.
9/28/24 9:01 p.m.- After investigating a domestic in Willing, state police arrested Kristi L. Sheridan, 40, of Wellsville. She was charged with criminal mischief.
On September 27, 2024, at approximately 2:00 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to County Route 5 in the town of Clarksville for a two-vehicle collision. Investigation determined that 2025 GMC was traveling west bound on County Route 5 and crossed into the oncoming east bound lane and struck a 2019 Dodge traveling east bound head-on. The single occupant of the GMC, Dustin A. Morrison, 40 of Limestone, NY and the passenger of the Dodge, Mary F. Neudeck, 70 of Portville, NY were pronounced deceased at the scene. The operator of the Dodge, Terry D. Neudeck, 72 of Portville, NY was transported by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center with severe injuries.
This is still an active investigation.
The NYSP Collision Reconstruction Unit and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation assisted in this investigation.
Andover, NY – Bradley J. Gena, 48, of Fulmer Valley Road, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at his residence. He was born October 20, 1975, in Wellsville, the son of John and Pamela (Bianco) Gena. On September 15, 2001, he married Rebekah A. Gainey in Charleston, SC. She survives him.
Raised in Wellsville, Brad graduated from Wellsville High School in 1994 and pursued further education at Alfred University. He established a distinguished career in the restaurant industry, serving as the operating partner of Hyman’s Seafood Company in Charleston, SC, for over 20 years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Brad returned to Wellsville with his family and founded The Wellsville General Store & Grill, contributing to the local community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Brad was strong in his faith and attended Abundant Life Ministries in Weston Mills with his family. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting and was passionate about vintage trucks. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father, whose love for his wife and four children knew no bounds. They were his greatest joy and the true purpose of his life.
In addition to his wife of 23 years, Rebekah, and his parents, John and Pam, he is survived by: his four children, Jael (Evan) Kurtz of Houghton, Daniel Gena, Micah Gena and Canaan Gena, all residing at home; parents-in-law, Sylvia and Aaron Hyman, and his father-in-law, Charles Gainey; an aunt, Penny Bianco; sister-in-law, Joy Johnson; and nephew, Paxton Johnson. He was predeceased by an infant brother, Jamie Gena, and maternal grandparents, Connie and Louie Bianco.
Friends are invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, 34 West State Street. A graveside service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Cemetery, 276 South Main Street, Wellsville, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.
Lynn E. “Skip” Snyder “beloved husband, father, and grandfather”
COUDERSPORT, PA---Lynn E. “Skip” Snyder, 77, a longtime resident of Coudersport, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Monday, September 23, 2024, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport ,after a long illness.
Born on Saturday, November 2, 1946, in Port Allegany, he was a son of Harry E. and Cleo V. DeNio Snyder. On April 23, 1966 in the Austin United Methodist Church, he married Judy A. Major, who survives.
Skip was employed as a heavy equipment operator for PennDOT in Coudersport, retiring after many years of service.
He was a member of the Roulette Fish and Game Club. He enjoyed fishing and hunting. He collected knives and enjoyed sharpening them. He loved to instigate and was a big jokester. His greatest love was his family.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 58 years, Judy; two sons, Lynn “Eddie” (Kathy) Snyder, Jr. of Roulette and Richard “Barney” (Julie) Snyder of Coudersport; twin daughters, Ruth Snyder of Coudersport and April (Dennis) Corderman of Genesee; six grandchildren, Sabrina Pekarski, Savanna Norton, Keri Fairbank, Kristie Kulp, Kasey Kulp, and Andrew Medlin; seven great-grandchildren, Kallee, Kiersten, Gavin, Storm, Kole, Liam and Simon; a great-great-grandson, Oliver; a brother, Duane Richard (Bobbi) Snyder of Florida; a sister, Kathy Sauve of Coudersport; and five nephews.
Skip was predeceased by his parents. A Celebration of Skip’s life will be held on a date and place to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Skip’s name may be made to the Roulette Fish and Game Club, PO Box 23, Roulette, PA 16746. Skip’s family entrusted his care 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 Skip, please visit
9/26/24 8:59 a.m.- State police report the arrest of
Dana R. McDonald, 43, of Bolivar. He was charged with resisting arrest,
obstructing governmental administration (preventing an official function), and
two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. Court action is
pending.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Division of Law Enforcement enforces the 71 chapters of New York State’s Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), protecting fish and wildlife and preserving environmental quality across New York. In 1880, the first eight Game Protectors proudly began serving to protect the natural resources and people of New York State. In 2023, the Division of Law Enforcement fielded more than 101,500 calls, resulting in Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) and Investigators across the state responding to more than 30,932 complaints and working on cases that resulted in nearly 16,900 tickets or arrests for violations ranging from deer poaching to solid waste dumping, illegal mining, the illegal pet trade, and excessive emissions violations.
“Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Investigators serving in DEC’s Division of Law Enforcement are working tirelessly across the state to protect natural resources and public safety while holding poachers and polluters accountable,” DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “DEC looks forward to continuing to work with our local, State, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure compliance with New York’s stringent environmental conservation laws and promote the safe and responsible enjoyment of the outdoors.”
Oh, Brother! – Wyoming County In August, a Wyoming County man pleaded guilty to several charges related to the unlawful taking of deer, ending a months-long investigation.
In January 2024, Lieutenant Ward received an anonymous tip alleging a Silver Springs man had taken more than the legal limit of bucks during the previous (2023) deer season. The complainant suggested several of the bucks were at a local taxidermy shop. Lieutenant Ward and ECO Koepf visited the shop and spoke to the owner who provided detailed records of capes and antlers the subject had dropped off. The subject brought in four antlered deer to be mounted, two with his own tags and two bearing tags from his brother.
The two buck tags bearing the brother’s name indicated each buck was taken on different Tuesdays during the season. Through the investigation, ECOs learned of the brother’s employment, subpoenaed his time and attendance records, and discovered the brother was at work on the Tuesdays in question. Faced with the evidence against him, the brother admitted he had not hunted at all that season and confessed to giving his tags to this brother.
The subject, still defiant, now claimed that he had taken two bucks legally and found the other two dead and decomposing so he had put his brother’s tags on them. Officers debunked that story after executing a search warrant on the subject’s home and cell phone and charged him with two counts of offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree (class E felony), two misdemeanor counts of taking deer over the limit, and two violation counts for accepting tags of another. The brother was also charged with two violation counts of lending tags to another.
The subject pleaded guilty to one count of attempted offering of a false instrument for filing in the second degree (class A misdemeanor), one misdemeanor count of taking deer over the bag limit, and one violation count of accepting tags of another. He paid $905 in fines, fees, and surcharges and surrendered two racks from the deer he took over the limit. The defendant also faces a revocation of his license for up to five years.
ECO Koepf (left) and Lt. Ward (right) with antlers seized during deer poaching investigation in Wyoming County
Injured Eagle – Genesee/Erie Counties On Aug. 28, ECO Laczi received a call from the New York State Thruway Authority requesting assistance with removing an injured bald eagle from the Thruway in the town of LeRoy. Officer Laczi arrived at the location and met with the State Trooper who located the bird. Trooper Delecki distracted the eagle as ECO Laczi carefully covered it with a blanket. The two Officers then secured the eagle’s talons and placed it safely in a pet carrier for transport to Messinger Woods Wildlife Care and Education Center in Holland, Erie County, for treatment.
ECO Laczi transports a bald eagle discovered injured in Genesee County to Messinger Woods Wildlife Care and Education Center in Erie County
Highway Shooter – Schuyler County On Sept. 1, ECO Dalecki responded to reports of an individual shooting at a crow from a motor vehicle in the town of Cayuta. The complainant reportedly heard the shot, followed the vehicle, and provided a description to the Schuyler County Sherriff’s Office and New York State Police, which contacted ECOs to assist. An investigation by law enforcement at the location confirmed the subject had shot at the crow while seated in his vehicle. Officer Dalecki issued four tickets to the subject: two misdemeanors for having a loaded gun in a motor vehicle and shooting from a public highway; and two violations for taking wildlife while in or on a motor vehicle and taking wildlife from a public highway. The fine range is $200-$1,000 for each of the misdemeanors and up to $250 for the violations. All charges are pending in the Town of Cayuta Court.
Roadside Dump – Orange County On Sept. 2, ECO Boyes received a complaint from New York State Police about an individual dumping garbage bags along Rutgers Creek in Wawayanda. The caller provided a description of the vehicle, driver, and location of approximately 12 bags of garbage dumped along the creek bank and in a ditch opposite the creek. On Sept. 3, Officer Boyes responded to the location and learned town employees had removed the six bags near the creek but six bags remained in the ditch. Officer Boyes went through the remaining bags and discovered rotting food, as well as several receipts, pieces of mail, and even a court receipt from the city of Middletown. Employees with the town of Wawayanda allowed ECO Boyes to check the bags they had collected, and the Officer discovered more information in the trash linking to the same individual identified in the previous search. ECO Boyes located and interviewed the owner of the mail and court receipt. The subject happened to live around the corner from the dump site and matched the description provided by the initial complainant. Officer Boyes charged the subject with two counts of unlawfully disposing solid waste, returnable to the Town of Wawayanda Court.
Bags of garbage illegally dumped in Wawayanda, Orange County
World Trade Center Remembrance On Sept. 11, Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) Director Przyklek, Captain Komonchak, and Lieutenant Levanway—all 9/11 World Trade Center first responders—attended the World Trade Center memorial service with DEC Region 2 members in New York City. Director Przyklek wore the names and badge numbers of DLE members who succumbed to 9/11 illnesses, including Lieutenant Paul Adam, Lieutenant David McShane, Investigator Thomas Graham, ECO Stephen Raymond, and ECO Lawrence Cabana.
DLE Director Przyklek (middle), Captain Komonchak (on her left) and Lieutenant Levanway (on her right) attend the World Trade Center Memorial service with DEC Region 2 members in New York City
Bear Over Bait – Delaware County On Sept. 14, ECOs Osborne and Doig, acting on information gathered during the early bear hunting season in southeastern Delaware County, conducted a patrol in Hancock focused on hunters taking black bears over bait. The Officers ventured out early morning and traversed high-elevation terrain toward the first known hunting stand when they heard a gunshot. The ECOs changed course and patrolled toward the sound, documenting evidence of hunting blinds and bait piles along the way. The Officers then discovered a fresh blood trail approximately 10 yards from one of the hunting blinds and a group of hunters nearby. The ECOs approached the hunters; one claimed he had shot at and missed a black bear with his rifle. ECOs Osborne and Doig searched the area and discovered a dead bear near the group. The hunters tried to hide the animal under a pile of leaf litter and debris. Faced with the clear evidence against them, all three subjects admitted to hunting over bait and one admitted the shot heard by the Officers had killed the black bear. The investigation also revealed the shooter purchased a hunting license online and failed to print his tag, which is required to be affixed to the animal immediately upon harvest. ECOs issued a total of eight tickets to the three subjects for the illegal take of bear, hunting over bait, failing to immediately tag bear, and illegally placing bear feed. All tickets are returnable to Hancock Town Court.
ECOs Osborne (left) and Doig (right) with black bear illegally taken in Delaware County
Illegal Deer Take – Sullivan County On Sept. 14, ECO Boyes responded to the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area in Mamakating for reports of a deer shot from a vehicle. Officer Boyes met New York State Police units at the location and assisted with the investigation. A complainant reported seeing the subject placing a gun back in their vehicle but did not witness the shot being fired. ECO Boyes eventually located two subjects in the woods near the vehicle in question and observed hunting equipment inside the truck. Two individuals returned to the vehicle dragging a dead dear within minutes and one of them walked Officer Boyes and the New State Police Troopers to the location where he had shot the animal. Police recovered a spent casing at the location matching the shooter’s rifle. State Police then used a laser rangefinder to determine the distance from which the hunter shot from a nearby residence. Although the subject did not shoot from a vehicle as first reported, he was too close to a residence when he discharged the firearm. ECO Boyes ticketed the hunter for discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling, illegally taking a deer, and failure to properly tag deer. His accomplice was charged with illegally taking a deer for assisting in the efforts. The tickets are returnable to Mamakating Town Court.
Deer taken illegally in Sullivan County
Youth Goose Hunt – Madison/Oneida Counties On Sept. 22, three ECOs and a Lieutenant teamed up with local volunteers to participate in a goose hunt with youth hunters from Madison and Oneida counties. The hunting group harvested a total of 40 geese while afield and then returned to the Cassidy Hollow Rod and Gun Club in Madison for a barbecue. This is the 14th year of this local youth hunt.
Statewide Fishing Compliance Checks – Kings/Queens/Suffolk/Nassau/Orange/Sullivan Counties From bunker busts to nighttime netters, ECOs statewide tackled a variety of cases over the past several weeks as they conducted fishing compliance checks on anglers:
On Aug. 15, ECOs Broughton and Veloski from DEC’s Marine Enforcement Unit joined ECOs Farner, Swart, and sector Officers from Staten Island and Queens for a nighttime boat patrol in Jamaica Bay focused on enforcing recreational saltwater regulations and navigation law safety checks. Officers checked several vessels and issued 14 tickets for offenses including possession of undersized black sea bass, porgy, and summer flounder, failure to possess a Marine Fishing Registry, and improper use of navigation lights. All defendants are scheduled to appear in Kings and Queens County Criminal Courts as appropriate.
During the overnight hours from Aug. 17 to 18, ECOs Pabes and Smith patrolled Long Island’s south shore for fishing activity at locations known for nighttime violations. The Officers began the night conducting surveillance at a busy bridge and noticed a group of subjects taking more than the limit of bluefish. The ECOs observed two individuals with eight bluefish, more than the maximum limit of three per person. Additionally, neither subject possessed a marine fishing registration as required in New York State. ECOs ticketed the men for catching fish over the limit and fishing without a marine registration. The Officers ended the night at another bridge, where ECO Pabes observed dim lights flashing on and off in the Great South Bay. The Officers approached the area and observed a group of men netting fish. The subjects possessed undersized blue claw crabs and summer flounder (fluke). Blue claw crabs must be 4.5 inches, and fluke must be 19.5 inches. Officers issued tickets for possession of undersized species and gave various warnings for fishing without a marine registration and taking fish by means other than angling.
On Aug. 29, ECO Hilton responded to reports of subjects taking thousands of fish by net at the Jones Beach Field 10 fishing piers in Nassau County. ECO Smith responded to provide backup given the number of fish reportedly being taken. The Officers observed two subjects in the parking lot with fish, another actively netting on a pier, and two more attempting to hide near a bait shop. The group possessed nearly 100 snapper (young bluefish) and approximately 1,000 peanut bunker (young menhaden). There are no size limits for bluefish or bunker, but there are daily harvest limits. The daily limit for bluefish in New York State is three per person and the daily limit for bunker is 100 per person. ECOs issued tickets for possession of over-the-limit species and educated them on the importance of conservation.
On Sept. 1, ECO Parker worked a joint enforcement detail with the National Park Service (NPS) on the Delaware River in Orange and Sullivan counties. At the end of the patrol, while Officers were loading the patrol boat onto its trailer, they received a call for assistance from NPS Rangers who stopped a group of 10 individuals with undersized fish, spear guns, and diving equipment in the town of Lumberland, Sullivan County. The Officers determined after a brief interview that several individuals within the group used spear guns to unlawfully take fish. Additionally, only two individuals had freshwater fishing licenses as required in New York. Officers seized 97 illegally taken fish and issued a total of 12 tickets for offenses including taking undersized fish, illegal possession of fish, taking fish by means other than angling, fishing without a freshwater fishing license, and depositing refuse along a highway. The case is pending further enforcement upon review of electronic evidence retrieved from the location. The Officers issued 18 total tickets for the daylong detail.
On Sept. 7, ECO Day observed a small vessel in the water off Hagerman Landing Beach in Rocky Point, Suffolk County, about an hour before sunrise without its navigation lights turned on. Officer Day observed the three anglers on board fishing for several hours, appearing to catch many porgy and black sea bass. He and Brookhaven Harbormaster Siele conducted a compliance check on the vessel when it returned to shore and discovered the subjects in possession of 127 porgy and nine black sea bass. Thirty-seven porgy were over the possession limit and 33 were less than the legal size required in New York when fishing from a vessel. All nine black sea bass were under the legal size limit. ECO Day issued three tickets to each angler for the fishing violations and Harbormaster Siele issued tickets to one subject for using an unregistered trailer and not having a visual signaling device or sound producing device aboard a vessel. The seized fish were donated to Sweetbriar Nature Center to feed raptors in their care.
ECOs Broughton (left) and Veloski (right) of DEC’s Marine Enforcement Unit with black sea bass, scup, and summer flounder seized during fishing compliance checks in Kings and Queens counties
Illegally netted bunker and snapper seized during fishing compliance checks in Nassau County
ECO Pabes conducts a fishing compliance check after dark in Nassau County
Spears and illegal fish discovered during fishing compliance check in Sullivan County
Undersized and over-the-limit fish seized during fishing compliance check in Rocky Point, Suffolk County
