Wellsville Troop 733 News

Wellsville Troop 733 Chartered by Trinity Lutheran Church in Wellsville had a 3-day campout March 28, 29 & 30 at the Andover Rod & Gun Club. On the schedule, a parent appreciation dinner, and Court of Honor. Attending were the parents & siblings of the members of the Troop, Pastor Ashe from Trinity Lutheran, Mary Perrine, District Executive from Allegheny Highlands Council, Robert Perrine, Order of the Arrow advisor, HO-NAN-NE-HO-ONT Lodge 165. 

The menu consisted of slow cooked pulled pork (16 hours' worth), coleslaw, baked beans, triple chocolate dump cake, homemade coffee ice cream and homemade maple syrup ice cream. The Scouts, under their watchful leader's eyes, undertook the complete meal preparations, set up, tear down & even did the dishes for their parents & guests.  

Before the feast, the Troop held a Court of Honor and awarded rank badges and merit badges to the Scouts. 

All the Scouts earned a "Trained" patch for January's Campout when they completed "Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops" about 8 hours of interactive education.  

-Rees Baker, Senior Patrol Leader, earned Citizenship in the Nation MB 

-Everett Hanks received his Swimming MB

 -Stanley La Forge earned his Life Scout rank and received Swimming & Citizenship in the nation MB 

-Brett Lewandowski earned Swimming and Citizenship in Nation MB 

-Henry Ordway earned Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class Rank as well as Citizenship in the Nation and Swimming MB 

After dinner, Robert Perrine gave a presentation to the Scouts about the Order of the Arrow, a 100 % led by youth group of scouts that are thought of as "the honor society of scouting", outlining requirements to join and activities they do. Scouts are elected by election of their peers. 

Mary Perrine followed with a talk about the Allegheny Highlands Council, Friends of Scouting ( FOS ) fund drive. She reiterated how none of the activities & opportunities of Scouting America would not be available without the help of individuals and businesses donating to the local organizations and council.   

To Learn more:  

About joining local scouting Contact Bill La Forge @ 585.808.0302 

FOS Mary Perrine mary.perrine@scouting.org 

Allegheny Highlands Council http://www.alleghenyhighlands.org 

Order of the Arrow https://www.alleghenyhighlands.org/order-of-the-arrow

Obituary: Carol Jane English, 83, of Wellsville, retired Wellsville school teacher

Carol Jane English, 83, of Wellsville, a free spirit with a heart full of adventure and a knack for making life a little more magical, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted mother, a cherished friend, and an eternal explorer and optimist.

Born on November 3, 1941, in Wellsville, Carol remained deeply rooted in her hometown, though her curiosity carried her far and wide. She took great pride and interest in her lineage, tracing her mother Ethel’s ancestry back to 16th-century England and her father Ervin’s to 17th-century Germany. A proud graduate of Wellsville High School, she continued her education at SUNY Fredonia, where she embarked on her first great overseas adventure during a semester abroad – an experience that ignited a lifelong passion for travel. She embraced every journey with an open heart, collecting stories, friendships, and unforgettable memories along the way.

Carol’s love for discover wasn’t limited to far-off places; she was also a passionate educator. For nearly 40 years, she taught middle school in the Wellsville public school district, where she inspired generations of students with her wisdom, humor, and boundless encouragement.

Music was another of Carol’s great loves. An enthusiastic violinist and pianist from a young age, she later became the longtime organist at First Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was also a devoted and lifelong member. Her commitment to her faith and community led her to serve in leadership roles, including church president. In retirement, she helped establish a daycare at the church, working tirelessly to build a warm and nurturing program for local families.

Carol’s zest for life was as contagious as her laughter. Well into her 80s, she could be spotted riding her bicycle, or tending to her garden, or tackling a home project with the energy of someone half her age. She had a way of making everyday moments special, often writing original poems that infused celebrations with humor, heart, and her signature wit.

Above all, Carol treasured the people in her life. She nurtured deep, lasting friendships and delighted in staying connected, whether through letters, phone calls, or spontaneous visits. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, adventure, and whimsy – a reminder that life is best lived with curiosity, courage, and a touch of mischief.

Carol is survived by her loving sons, Richard and David; nephew Tom; nephews Philip, Joes, Anthony, and nieces Lisa and Tina. She was predeceased by her husband, Daniel; he dear sister Nancy; and her brother-in-law, Dennis Miller.

Friends are invited to call on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 4 – 7 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 470 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY, 14895. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 11 AM in the church. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Hart House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Emergency test TONIGHT at Cuba-Rushford school

 

Partial Obituary: Grace M. Yentzer, 97, Port Allegany, PA

PORT ALLEGANY, PA---Grace M. Yentzer, 97, of Port Allegany, passed away in her home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

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.

New York State Police Blotter – March 30, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – March 30, 2025

3/30/25 11:25 a.m.- After investigating a domestic dispute in Belfast, state police arrested Sabin M. Barber, 23, of Belfast. Barber was charged with preventing an emergency call to police, fire or EMS. Barber was taken to the Allegany County Jail and held for Central arraignment.

3/30/25 6:50 p.m.- After investigating an assault with a motor vehicle in Hornellsville, state police arrested Walter Paul Golden, 40, of Arkport. He was charged with two felony counts of first-degree assault with intent to cause serious injury. No additional information was released.

Wellsville Police Blotter - March 31, 2025

Date: Sunday March 30, 2025

Wellsville Police, acting on three Bench Warrants issued by the Wellsville Village Court, arrested Melissa S. Fisher (Munday), age 46 of Olean, for failure to appear in Wellsville Village Court on January 21st on three prior Pettit Larceny charges.  Fisher (Munday) was located by the City of Olean Police and turned over to Wellsville Police.  Fisher (Munday) was processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Fisher (Munday) is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

On 03/29/2025 Deputies from the Allegany County Sheriff's Office arrested CHAD D. GRISWOLD, age 42, of Wirt, NY for felony Criminal Contempt 1st, Criminal Contempt 2nd, Aggravated Family Offense and Aggravated Harassment 2nd. The charges stem from incidents which occurred at the Allegany County Jail during which GRISWOLD allegedly contacted a protected party by phone.

On 03/30/2025 GRISWOLD was arrested and additionally charged with Criminal Contempt 2nd for allegedly contacting a protected party by mail. GRISWOLD will be arraigned in CAP Court.

Cuba Police honors Officer Austin Plank

The Cuba Police Department recently held its annual award ceremony, where current and retired members gathered to recognize and honor the hard work and dedication of our agency’s members. Officer Austin Plank was honored for his exceptional dedication to DWI enforcement and his outstanding contributions to community service.

The “Top Cop” award is bestowed upon individuals who consistently go above and beyond in their efforts to enforce DWI laws and make our roadways safer. The community service award recognizes the extracurricular public relations programs that our staff actively participates in, which have significantly contributed to the positive image of our agency.

Congratulations, Officer Plank, on these well-deserved accolades!

NYS DEC preps to stock Allegany County rivers and streams

The following listing reflects the anticipated number of yearling and older trout to be stocked into listed waters during spring 2025. Actual numbers and stocking times may vary depending on fish availability and weather conditions. The fish are stocked with help from County Federated Sportsmen.

Water	Town	Number	Date	Species	Size (inches)
Allen lake	Allen	685	April - 2nd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Allen lake	Allen	5880	Spring	Rainbow Trout	8 inches
Black Creek	West Almond	60	April - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Black Creek	West Almond	570	April - 1st week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
California Hollow Brook	Bolivar	40	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
California Hollow Brook	Bolivar	370	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	9 - 10 inches
Canacadea Creek	Almond	40	April - 2nd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Canacadea Creek	Almond	320	April - 2nd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Canaseraga Creek	Burns	920	April - 1st week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Canaseraga Creek	Burns	100	April - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Clarksville Town Pond	Clarksville	210	April	Rainbow Trout	8 inches
Cryder Creek	Independence	100	March - 4th week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Cryder Creek	Independence	890	March - 4th week	Brown Trout	9 - 10 inches
Dodge Creek	Clarksville	120	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Dodge Creek	Clarksville	1080	March - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Dyke Creek	Andover	20	March - 4th week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Dyke Creek	Andover	160	March - 4th week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Dyke Creek	Wellsville	40	March - 4th week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Dyke Creek	Wellsville	320	March - 4th week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Amity	620	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Amity	5590	March - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Amity	620	April - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Amity	5590	April - 1st week	Brown Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Amity	5590	April - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Amity	620	April - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Amity	5590	May - 1st week	Brown Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Amity	620	May - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	860	March - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	100	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	860	April - 1st week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	100	April - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	860	April - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	100	April - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	860	May - 1st week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Genesee River	Wellsville	100	May - 1st week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Little Genesee Creek	Bolivar	100	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Little Genesee Creek	Bolivar	630	March - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Root Creek	Bolivar	230	March - 3rd week	Rainbow Trout	9 - 10 inches
Root Creek	Bolivar	30	March - 3rd week	Brown Trout	12 -15 inches
Rushford Camp Pond	New Hudson	200	June	Rainbow Trout	8 inches
Rushford Lake	Caneadea	1610	Spring	Brown Trout	8 inches
Rushford Lake	Caneadea	3990	Spring	Rainbow Trout	8 inches

New York State Police Blotter – March 29/30, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – March 29/30, 2025

3/29/25 2:16 p.m.- After investigating an offense in the town of Burns, state police arrested Gerald L. Loveland. 74, of Arkport. He was charged with sexual misconduct. A court appearance is pending.

3/29/25 9:31 p.m.- During a traffic sop in the town of Hinsdale, state police arrested Thomas R. Childs, 38, of Cuba. He was charged with driving while intoxicated-first offense and having a BAC above .08%. He’ll appear in court later.

3/30/25 2:13 a.m.- State police said two people were injured in a single vehicle crash on County Road 11 in the town of Almond. State police arrested the driver, Gage Dean Geffers, 25, of Wellsville. He was charged with felony driving while intoxicated and felony having a BAC above .08%. Troopers did not describe the extent of injuries. Geffers was transported to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment.

Obituary: Mary E. Francis, 90, Cuba

 

Mary E. Francis:  Beloved Mother and Grandmother

Mary E. Francis, 90, of 8 Stone Street, Cuba, passed away Friday, March 28, 2025 at Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing, Wellsville, after a lengthy illness.

Born on May 4, 1934, in Cuba, she was a daughter of Dean and Ruth (White) Young. 

She was a graduate of Cuba Central School.  She then served in the United States Air Force from September 28, 1953 until February 17, 1955. 

Mary was a housekeeper for many years for Florence Mountain and will be remembered by many families in Cuba.

In her younger years, she played softball on a team called Hoppy’s Girls for 10 years.  Later she was the first female Coach for Cuba Little League and had a championship winning team the Indians.  Mary loved watching MMA and action movies with her grandson David. 

She is survived by a daughter Rene Fanton of Cuba, a grandson David Fanton of Cuba, a sister Sylvia Young of Hamburg; Her Loving Friends Christine Strigler and family of Rochester and Colleen Bradley Edwards and family of Baldwinsville, New York, Nancy Simons and her daughter Monica who she knew for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother James and five sisters Ellen, Edna, Delores, Linda, and Alice.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family at a date, time, and place to be announced.

Arrangements are under direction of the Mark F. Rinke Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., Cuba.

Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.

New York State Police Blotter – March 28, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – March 28, 2025

3/28/25 4:22 p.m.- During a traffic stop in the town of Wirt, state police arrested Matthew B. Billings, 40, of Coudersport, PA. He was charged with felony aggravated driving while intoxicated with a passenger under the age of 16, felony first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, endangering the welfare of a child and driving while intoxicated. He was taken to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment.

3/29/25 1:18 a.m.- During a traffic stop on State Route 19A in Hume, state police arrested Chelsea M. Shephard, 34, of Silver Creek. She was charged with felony DWI, felony aggravated DWI, felony first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation and circumventing an ignition interlock device. She was taken to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment.

Assemblyman Sempolinski Urges Legislature to Adopt Recommendations of Human Trafficking Task Force

ALBANY – Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski said New York needs to do more to support victims of human trafficking, prevent exploitation of women and minors and bring those responsible for human trafficking to justice.

The Assembly Republican Task Force on Human Trafficking released its report this week. Co-chaired by Assemblyman Brian Maher and Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh, the Task Force met with stakeholders across the state including survivors, social workers, members of law enforcement, border patrol agents and prosecutors.

“The main takeaway is that we need to do more to support survivors of human trafficking so they can recover from the horrible abuse they suffer. Devoting resources to victims’ services is the right thing to do. It’s also responsible fiscal policy because we know that when we devote resources to early victim services, it saves money in the long run. We also need to reverse soft-on-crime policies like bail reform, raise the age and the green light law that make it easier for traffickers to ply their trade and avoid justice,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said.

 The Task Force found that victims of human trafficking are overwhelmingly women and that 75 percent of the cases involve sex trafficking. Many of the victims are under the age of 17. New York’s migrant crisis also created a new population of both vulnerable individuals and a criminal element who exploit the vulnerable for sex and labor trafficking.

“No one should ever be trafficked and treated like property. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect as a human being. I want to thank Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay for forming the Task Force and for Assemblyman Maher and Assemblywoman Walsh for co-chairing it. Our job now is to create policy to implement the Task Force’s recommendations,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said.

Obituary: Rolland Gael Stewart, 84, formerly of West Clarksville and Portville

Romney, West Virginia-Rolland Gael Stewart 

Rolland Gael Stewart, formerly of West Clarksville and Portville, New York passed away February 28, 2025 in Romney, West Virginia. 

Gael was born April 10, 1940 to Rolland “Pat” and Esther McIntyre Stewart.  He attended grade school in West Clarksville and most of high school at Richburg Central School.  He graduated from Cuba Central in 1958.  Gael joined the Army in the Fall of 1958.  Following his discharge, he returned to West Clarksville and to work for the Department of Conservation. 

On October 12, 1963, Gael married Patricia E. Durr of Portville.  She passed away on April 10, 2002 

Gael then moved to West Virginia where he worked in construction.  In September of 2009, he married Nancy Rudy of Romney.  Upon retirement he spent much of his time as an all-around handyman at Wapacoma Campground

 Gael is survived by his wife, Nancy, his daughter Nicole (Peter) Wojciechowski, grandchildren Atticus James and Eden Gael, his sister Crystal Van Patten, step children, step grandchildren, and step great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He was predeceased by his first wife and his parents.

 A Memorial Service was held at the Shaffer Funeral Home in Romney on March 8, 2005.

Cuba Police Press Release

 *** Press Release ***

On March 25th, 2025, at approximately 7:11PM, Cuba Police arrested Shane A. Ellis (26) of Olean, NY. Ellis was arrested on charges of moved from lane unsafely (Violation), aggravated unlicensed operation 1st (Felony) and operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs (Unclassified Misdemeanor). Ellis was processed and sent to the Allegany County Jail to await arraignment. Ellis is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

Statement From Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton Following the notable wildlife seizure in Chemung County in October, DEC undertook an internal investigation of agency wildlife enforcement procedures. At the direction of the Governor, in my initial few weeks as acting commissioner, I have prioritized a review of our current wildlife protection and enforcement process to protect New Yorkers and this agency from similar incidents in the future. We have carefully reviewed all the public feedback and we understand the distress caused to communities throughout the state. We know that we can do better moving forward. Our agency is committed to developing additional protocols to address illegally possessed wildlife and ensuring that our staff and environmental conservation officers have the necessary resources to carry them out. In addition, DEC will be welcoming a new Deputy Commissioner for Public Protection & Emergency Response. We recognize that these improvements are necessary and in my new role I will ensure that DEC is focused on its mission to deliver clean air and water for every New Yorker while protecting the environment and our invaluable natural resources for future generations.

New York State Police Blotter – March 27, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – March 27, 2025

3/27/25 10:06 p.m. – After investigating an incident in the village of Richburg, state police later arrested Damion N. Merrill, 19, of Olean. He was charged with making a false report to law enforcement regarding an incident that did not occur. He was processed and issued an appearance ticket for court.

3/28/25 12:22 a.m. – After an incident in the town of Erwin just after midnight today, state police arrested Richard W. Wilson, 30, of Woodhull. He was charged with second-degree criminal contempt for allegedly disobeying a court order. He was taken to Steuben County Jail and held for Central arraignment.

New Legislator Bessette assigned to 3 county committee's, including Public Safety

Thursday announcement from Allegany County: 

The Allegany County Board of Legislators on Wednesday appointed Charles Bessette of Wirt to fill a vacancy in its Third Legislative District. He filled the seat of Adam Cyr who vacated his seat and is a current candidate for County Treasurer. 

2025 ALLEGANY COUNTY BOARD OF LEGISLATORS STANDING COMMITTEES 

1. HUMAN SERVICES: Chairman: Burdick Vice Chairman: Ricketts-Swales Committee Members: Barnes, Bessette, Hanchett, Healy, Root

 2. PERSONNEL: Chairman: Ricketts-Swales Vice Chairman: Ricci Committee Members: Bessette, Burdick, Hanchett, Havey, Root Special – Negotiations Liaison Committee (Sub-Committee of Personnel) Chairman: Ricci 

3. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Chairman: Root Vice Chairman: Hanchett Committee Members: Barnes, Curran, Havey, Healy, Ricci, Ricketts-Swales 

4. PUBLIC SAFETY: Chairman: Havey Vice Chairman: Stockin Committee Members: Barnes, Bessette, Demick, Healy, Ricketts-Swales 

5. PUBLIC WORKS: Chairman: Fanton Vice Chairman: Demick Committee Members: Barnes, Curran, Healy, Stockin 

Special – Space Needs Committee (Sub-Committee of Public Works) Chairman: Demick Vice Chairman: Healy Committee Members: Fanton, Hanchett, Havey, Root, Rumfelt

 6. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Chairman: Curran Vice Chairman: Hanchett Committee Members: Barnes, Demick, Fanton, Ricketts-Swales 

7. WAYS & MEANS: Chairman: Stockin Vice Chairman: Fanton Committee Members: Burdick, Demick, Havey, Healy, Ricci, Root 

Special – Budget Committee (Sub-Committee of Ways & Means) Chairman: Burdick Vice Chairman: Barnes Committee Members: Curran, Fanton, Ricci, Rumfelt, Stockin

Flames torch town of Willing home- Allegany County

 

(photo from Scio fire)

Flames torch town of Willing home- Allegany County

Flames Thursday afternoon at 4:35 p.m. damaged a single-family home at 1904 State Route 19 (at Peet Avenue) in the town of Willing. First responders arriving at the scene said there were “flames showing.” Allegany County Fire Coordinator Bill Day said there appeared to “be no entrapment.” Deputy Fire Coordinator Brian Smith told 911 that power lines “were down” and National Grid needed to respond. Allegany County dispatched Willing, Alma, Scio, Andover, Whitesville and Wellsville fire departments to the scene. Allentown and Genesee, PA were called for stand-by. Wellsville ambulance responded with medics while Medical Transport covered for Wellsville. State Route 19 was shut down in the area during firefighting operations. Fire officials requested the American Red Cross to the scene to help one adult male. Several units returned to service just after 6 p.m. The cause is currently under investigation.  

Allegany County: No drought, but "abnormally dry"

 

Northeast

Periods of Northeastern precipitation resulted in modest trimming of abnormal dryness (D0) and moderate to extreme drought (D1 to D3) in northern New York and along the Atlantic Coast. Farther south and inland, however, some expansion of dryness (D0) and moderate to severe drought (D1 to D2) was noted from West Virginia into western New York.

Obituary: Leslie D. “Pete” Prentice, 94, Cuba

Leslie D. “Pete” Prentice:  Father, Grandfather

Leslie D. “Pete” Prentice, 94, of 8988 County Road 20, Cuba, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, Bath after a short illness.

Born on July 2, 1930, in Ischua, he was a son of Leslie M. and Edna A. Robinson Prentice.  On October 31, 1953, in Belfast, he married the former Betty Ann Mead who predeceased him on January 16, 2017. 

Leslie served in the United States Marine Corps. during the Korean War from 1948 until 1952.  He received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Ribbon, and Good Conduct Medal for his service.  After 28 years he retired from Friendship Dairies.

He is survived by his children, Connie (Terry) Stives of Friendship, Paul (Donna Hess) Prentice of Rushford, Brian (Bonnie) Prentice          of Franklinville, Ricky Prentice of Yorkshire and Michael (Kelly Dreilling) Prentice of Centerville; 8 Grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren Several Nieces and Nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by 3 Brothers Stanley, Maynard, and George Prentice and two sisters Aletha Barber and Genevieve Wells, and a step sister Evelyn Straight.

At Leslie’s request there will be no visitation or service. 

Troopers investigate five-vehicle crash in Andover

 

Troopers investigate five-vehicle crash in Andover

State police said two people sustained injuries during a five-vehicle accident at 7:33 a.m. Wednesday on State Route 21 in the town of Andover near the Alfred line. It is believed that one person was transported to UR St. James in Hornell and another was taken to UR Jones Memorial in Wellsville. The other occupants were treated and/or evaluated at the scene. Troopers listed the drivers as Samantha M. Quick, 23, of Almond; Colleen J. McDermott, 51, of Hornell; Aiden P. Diehl, 19, of Hornell; Luke B. Sargent, 43, of Hornell and Carli R. Corcoran, 29, of Hornell. Ambulances responded from Andover, Alfred, Wellsville and Medical Transport. Andover and Alfred Station fire assisted at the scene and closed down the highway. Reports suggested the highway was slippery with snow at the time. The accident description was not immediately available.

Obituary: Hazel M. Cornell, 82, Andover

ANDOVER – Hazel M. Cornell, 82, passed away peacefully on Monday (March 24, 2025) at Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville following a brief illness.

Hazel was born on May 12, 1942 in Wellsville to Harold E. and Fanny E. (Taylor) Lehman. She attended Andover Central School. She served in food preparation at Alfred State College Dining Services for 32 years.

Hazel is survived by two children, Robert A. (Cindy) Cornell, Jr. and Michele (Robert) Kurtz, both of Andover; a sister, Darlene (Mike) Willis of Wayland; a son-in-law, Robert L. “Rob” Baker of Alfred Station; a brother-in-law, Wendell Bennett of Andover; eight grandchildren, Amanda (Aaron) Ross, Heather Mesler, Tricia (Robert) Davenport, Charity Davenport, Curtis (Terry Flint) Wagner, Robert A. (Georgia) Cornell, III, Tyler Cornell and Danielle (Andrew) Bledsoe; eight great-grandchildren, Colton Ross, Mikey Mesler, Brentley Mesler, Ethan Davenport, Cierra Davenport, Natalee Cornell, Jayden Dix and Rhys Cornell; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a daughter, Corinna Ann Baker; three brothers, Charles E. Lehman, Carl. L. Lehman and James H. Lehman; and two sisters, Lois E. Ryan and Mary Lou Bennett.

Hazel had a heart of gold. She routinely put the needs of others before her own needs. She spent many years of her life as a caregiver for others. Hazel was also feisty and strong willed but those closest to her loved her and appreciated knowing where she stood on a particular subject. And she was passionate about her family, especially her many grandchildren.

Hazel enjoyed the simple things of life. She loved to work, cook, watch her soaps, cheer for her beloved Buffalo Bills and reminisce on the good ole days that included Elvis. Her favorite pastime was sitting on her porch watching the birds and animals while listening to her windchimes.

Hazel was a lifetime member of the Andover Rod and Gun Club.

Per her wishes, there will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held during better weather at a time to be determined. Burial of her ashes will take place in Hillside Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.

Memorial contributions in Hazel’s name may be made to Andover Rod and Gun Club, 597 Kilbane Road, Andover, NY 14806. © 2025 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.

Allegany Co Press Release - Bessette Appointed to District III Legislative Seat

Bessette Appointed to Fill Allegany County Board Seat

The Allegany County Board of Legislators has appointed Charles Bessette of Wirt to fill a vacancy in its Third Legislative District. On March 26, 2025, after passing Board Resolution No. 138-25, Bessette was sworn into office by the Honorable Thomas P. Brown.

Bessette is a 30-year resident of the Town of Wirt and served 35 years with the United States Postal Service, including 6 years as managing Postmaster for Allentown, Alma, Richburg, and Little Genesse. He also served as President of the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Allegany Postmaster Association from 2011 to 2015 and as Adverse Action Representative for United Postmasters and Managers from 2012 to 2023.

A retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Master Sergeant, Bessette was Commander of the Bolivar American Legion from 2015-16. He continues his commitment to volunteerism though work as President of the Cattaraugus-Allegany BOCES Board of Education, with the Bolivar-Richburg Educational Foundation, and as a recently appointed member of the ACCORD Corporation Board of Directors.

Following the legislative meeting, Bessette expressed appreciation and optimism for the appointment. “I would like to thank the District III Republican Committee and the Board of Legislators for entrusting me in this important position. It will be an honor representing the people in District III for the remainder of the year.”  Chairman Harris noted that in addition to filling the current vacancy in District III, Legislator Bessette is campaigning to serve District III in the subsequent term, which will commence on January 1, 2026.

Bessette fills the seat of former legislator Adam Cyr, who is currently seeking the office of Allegany County Treasurer.