New York State Police Blotter – May 30, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – May 30, 2025

5/30/25 11:42 p.m.- After investigating a fire in the town of Andover, state police arrested Kevin L. Cobb, 61, of Andover. He was charged with third-degree arson (intentionally causing damage), a class C felony and second-degree reckless endangerment. He was taken to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment.

5/31/25 5:01 a.m.- After investigating a property-damage accident in the town of Caneadea, state police arrested Heather N. Luders, 34, of Mount Morris. She was charged with driving while intoxicated and having a BAC greater than .08%. A court appearance is pending.

State Police arrest two City of Olean police officers

On May 4, 2025, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation at SP Olean arrested Jason L. DeYoe, age 50, of Olean, NY, on charges of Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child 2nd degree, a class D felony, and Unlawful Surveillance 2nd degree, a class E felony. 

The charges stem from a complaint that DeYoe, who is a police officer with the Olean Police Department,  committed a sexual offense involving a minor.

DeYoe was arraigned in Portville Town Court and released. He is due back in court on June 5. 

On May 12, 2025, New York State Police arrested Jason Boon, age 47, of Olean, NY, on charges of Assault 3rd degree and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, both class A misdemeanors.

An investigation determined that Boon was involved in a domestic incident during which he assaulted the victim. Boon, who is a police officer with the Olean Police Department, was processed and released on appearance tickets.

Wellsville: Driscoll Service Announcement

The friends and family of Eleanor Anderson Driscoll are invited to a graveside service on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 am in Sacred Heart Cemetery, 276 S. Main Street, Wellsville, NY. A reception will follow the burial at L’Italia, 105 North Main Street, Wellsville.

Eleanor passed away on February 14, 2025, in Malvern, PA. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

SBA Buffalo District Recognizes the Town and Village of Cuba for Economic Gardening

Pictured left to right are: District 2 Legislator John Ricci; District 2 Legislator Gretchen Hanchett; Village of Cuba Mayor Jason Morrison; SBA Buffalo District Director Victoria Reynolds; Town of Cuba Supervisor Lee James; Allegany County Economic Development Office Director Ashley Smith; Cuba Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kevin White; and District 2 Legislator Dwight “Mike” Healy.

Belmont, NY – For over 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW) to honor the vital contributions of entrepreneurs and small businesses across the nation. This year’s celebration held May 4–10, 2025, spotlighting the dedication, innovation, and economic impact of small business owners nationwide.

Allegany County proudly led the way in SBA award nominations, with seven local businesses, the highest number among the 14 counties in the Buffalo region. Notably, five of these nominees hail from the Town and Village of Cuba, underscoring the community’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.

On May 20, 2025, representatives from Allegany County and the Cuba Chamber of Commerce joined SBA officials in Cuba, to recognize the community’s exceptional efforts in Economic Gardening—a forward-thinking strategy focused on growing local businesses from within. The SBA Buffalo District formally honored the Town and Village of Cuba for their proactive support of small business development.

Following the award presentation, officials toured the community to visit several of the nominated businesses. Stops included White Imprints, The Radix, Six South Pizza, Tap-n-Pour, and The Little Alchemy Shop—each a shining example of local entrepreneurship.

Economic Gardening is a progressive economic development approach that empowers locally rooted businesses with the tools, market insights, and strategies needed to expand and thrive. Rather than relying solely on external business recruitment, this model nurtures internal growth by supporting entrepreneurs as the drivers of job creation and economic vitality.

Congratulations to all our local small business nominees, and to the Town and Village of Cuba for this well-deserved recognition. Your commitment to local economic growth is a model for communities across the region.

Obituary: Pamela A. “Pam” Cooper, 70, of Eldred/Almond

ELDRED, PA---Pamela A. “Pam” Cooper, 70, of Eldred, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a long illness. Born on Monday, May 31, 1954, in Wellsville, NY, she was a daughter of Charles and Mildred Jones Briggs. She was raised by her grandmother, Ruba Briggs, after the death of parents. On July 14, 1998 in the First Church of God in Eldred, she married Thomas J. “Coop” Cooper, who passed away on May 21, 2015.

Pam was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School in Almond, NY. She was employed at the former Acme Electric in Allegany, NY and Cuba, NY, retiring after many years of service. Pam enjoyed quilting. Surviving are two sisters, Sue (Ron) Brown of Shinglehouse and Arlene Wildman of Hornell, NY; a brother, Cecil (Sandy) Briggs of Wellsville, NY; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews; and several friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Pam was predeceased by a brother, Gary Briggs; and a sister, Diana Ayers. There will be no public services. Burial will be in Grimes Cemetery, Port Allegany.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Pam’s family has 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 Pam, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

Incomplete Obituary: David S. “Poppy” Thompson, 80, a lifelong resident of Bolivar

BOLIVAR, NY---David S. “Poppy” Thompson, 80, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, passed away in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side on Friday, May 30, 2025.

Family and friends may call from 2pm to 4pm on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Bolivar Fire Department, Main Street, Bolivar, where funeral services will follow at 4pm. All attending are invited to a meal following the service.

Funeral arrangements, are entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.

Obituary: Paul Lawrence ERWAY, 66, of Shelbyville, KY, formerly of Coudersport, PA

 

Paul Lawrence ERWAY, 66, of Shelbyville, KY, formerly of Coudersport, PA, died peacefully Friday, May 23, 2025 at the University of Louisville Hospital following an extended illness.  Born October 9, 1958, in Coudersport, he was the son of Eugene F. Erway and Dorothy Buck Erway.  After graduating from high school, he pursued his love of horses by earning a degree in Horse Husbandry from SUNY in Morrisville, NY.  Life soon turned upside down for him as an automobile accident in 1980 left him with a spinal cord injury, forcing him to use his “chrome pony” for wheelchair mobility.  After a period of rehabilitation and a brief attendance at Penn State University, he soon set his sights on his capabilities rather than his disabilities.  His goals of self-reliance and independence connected him with a company that specialized in outfitting automobiles with accessories for handicapped customers.  His many years of work in sales for Superior Van and Mobility allowed him to make many connections and showcase how increased mobility could physically and mentally benefit affected individuals.  Paul was an extremely positive and faithful individual.  He was well known for reaching out to friends randomly with Bible verses, inspirational messages, and jokes.  As a paraplegic, Paul found a new path that would take him all over the United States with a new passion, wheelchair racing.  Building on his racing career, he qualified and competed the Boston Marathon twice (one during the bombing) as well as two major wheelchair races overseas in Holland and Japan.  His love for competing in wheelchair racing afforded him a platform as a motivational speaker at various venues such as rehab centers and hospitals across the country.  This also helped him devise his glorious plan of participating in 50 marathons in 50 states over 50 weeks to raise mobility awareness.  A super-aggressive idea concocted to test boundaries, Paul enlisted the help of two other wheelchair-bound friends (Grant Berthiaume and Aaron Roux) to travel together and fill in if Paul was unable to participate as he was still working full time.  His goal was achieved, and he authored two books that chronicle the adventures called 50 ABILITIES, Unlimited Possibilities.  Additionally, Paul performed a significant amount of volunteer work and was an active member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Shelbyville, KY.  Surviving are: his wife of 37 years, Barbara Anne Fasnacht Erway of Shelbyville, KY; seven siblings, Christine (Robert) Phillips of Elsa, IL, Dana (Virginia) Erway of Casa Grande, AZ, David (Kathryn) Erway of Coudersport, Edward (Mary) Erway of Lexington, KY,  Peggy (James) Wilkinson of Lexington, KY, Steven (Brenda) Erway of Coudersport, and Michael (Melissa) Erway of  Parrish, FL; two aunts, Rita Barnett of Grove City, OH and Doris  (Dale) Nichols of Elizabethtown, PA; an uncle, Dale Erway of Genesee, PA; nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Paul’s family also included his beloved canine companions, Robbie, Baxter, Dickens, and Lucy.  He was predeceased by his parents.  A gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025 at Webb Funeral Home in Shelbyville, KY.  A gathering to celebrate Paul's life will also be held on a later date in August in Coudersport, PA—time and place to be announced.  Interment will be in Raymond Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com. 

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR HOCHUL ON THE DEATH OF STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR HOCHUL ON THE DEATH OF STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR ROBERT BORNT

“New York’s public employees play an essential role in the health and safety of all New Yorkers, and our highway maintenance workers do their jobs every day in all weather, in the face of high-speed traffic, to keep all of us safe. The death of Department of Transportation Highway Maintenance Supervisor Robert Bornt, who passed away this morning after suffering from catastrophic injuries related to a work zone crash in Pittstown yesterday afternoon, is nothing short of a senseless tragedy. Work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility, and this fatal crash underscores the importance of slowing down and paying attention in highway work zones — not only for the safety of the traveling public, but for the workers who are out there every day keeping us safe. I extend my deepest condolences to Robert's family and friends, as well as his coworkers at the Department of Transportation, during this difficult time.”

The Arc Allegany-Steuben Hosts Inspiring Annual Meeting

 

The Arc Allegany-Steuben Hosts Inspiring Annual Meeting Focused on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - Event Recognizes Outstanding Contributors and Features Expert Panel Discussion 

BATH, NY: The Arc Allegany-Steuben, a leading advocate and service provider for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), held its Annual Meeting on May 28, 2025, bringing together community leaders, stakeholders, and advocates for an evening of celebration, insight, and collaboration. 

This year’s event honored 70 Arc Allegany-Steuben associates celebrating a Milestone Anniversary during 2025: totaling 735 collective years of service. The Joseph Damiano Memorial Direct Support Professional of the Year Award was presented to Breana Gleaton for her commitment to improving the lives of people with special needs, and Sarah Carpenter was named the 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year. 

"This gathering reflects the strength of our community and the ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion, and respect for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Mike Damiano, Executive Director of The Arc Allegany-Steuben. “We are proud to celebrate those who make a meaningful difference every day.” 

The event also featured a compelling panel discussion titled “Bridging People and Policy: The Impact of Federal and State Changes on Disability Services.” Moderated by Mike Damiano, the panel included leading experts in disability services, self-advocates, and policymakers who explored current challenges, best practices, and opportunities to enhance quality of life and independence for people with I/DD. 

Panelists included:

·         W. Brooke Harris - Chair, Allegany County Legislature

·         Katy Neas - Chief Executive Officer, The Arc

·         BJ Stasio - Board Advisor, Self-Advocacy Association of New York State

·         Maria J. Torgalski - Region 1 Director, Office for People with Developmental Disabilities

The discussion emphasized the importance of person-centered approaches, equitable access to care, and the valuable role Direct Support Professionals provide in the lives of people with I/DD. 

The Arc Allegany-Steuben is committed to building a more inclusive society through its programs, partnerships, and advocacy. For more information about the agency’s work or how to get involved, please visit www.thearcas.org.

Obituary: Rev. David P. Brown, 70, of Scio

Rev. David P. Brown, 70, of Scio, died on Thursday, May 29, 2025, in his home with his family by his side. He was born August 11, 1954, in South Bend, IN, the son of the late Donald Edwin and Mary Lou (Strang) Brown. On May 27, 2006, in Olean, he married Karen Gunzelman, who survives.  

Dave was raised in Culver, IN and was a 1972 graduate of Culver High School. He continued his education at Harvest Bible College. He was ordained with the Assembly of God Church, preaching in Indiana, Ohio, and Olean. After moving to Scio, he and his wife attended Riverside Assembly of God of Wellsville. His passion was helping others and talking to people about The Lord. 

 

In addition to his wife of 19 years, Karen, he is survived by: a daughter, Rachel (Chase) Wheeler of Elyria, OH; two grandsons, Owen and Isaac; three sisters, Deborah (Dan) Gross, Pat (Larry) Hisey, and Sandra (Bob) Brown; as well as several nieces and nephews. 

 

A private Memorial Service is being planned for a later date. Please consider memorial donations to: The Riverside Assembly of God Church, 3218 Riverside Drive, Wellsville, NY 14895; or Sarah’s Heart, PO Box 645, Olean, NY 14760. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Thursday May 29, 2025 

Wellsville Police arrested Patrick W. Gallagher Jr, age 33 of Wellsville, charging him with 2 counts of Criminal Mischief 3^rd (Class E Felony).  The charge stems from an incident that took place on Pine Street on May 23^rd.  Gallagher was processed transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Gallagher is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date. 

Wellsville Police, acting on an Arrest Warrant, arrested James A. Roulo, age 43 of Wellsville, charging him with Trespass (Violation).  The charges stems from an incident that took place on Scott Avenue on May 22^nd.  Roulo was processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Roulo is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

Date: Wednesday May 28, 2025 

Wellsville Police arrested Adrian M. Derosa, age 35 of Wellsville, NY, charging him with Pettit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor).  The charge stems from an incident that took place at Giant Food Mart.  Derosa was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released.  Derosa is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on June 10^th at 4:30 pm.

Date: Tuesday May 27, 2025 

Wellsville Police, acting on a Bench Warrant issued by the Wellsville Village Court, arrested Austin J. Murphy, age 20 of Angelica, charging him with failure to appear in Wellsville Village Court on November 19, 2024 on previous AUO 3^rd other vehicle and traffic charges.  Murphy was taken into custody following a traffic stop on West State Street.  Murphy was additionally charged with AUO 2^nd (Unclassified Misdemeanor) and Speed in Zone (Infraction).  Murphy was issued traffic citations and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court. Murphy is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

New York State Police Blotter – May 29, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – May 29, 2025

5/29/25 6:30 p.m.- State police were called to investigate a domestic child abuse case in Scio. As a result, troopers arrested Randy R. Abel, 36, of Wellsville. He was charged with one count of acting in a manner to injure a child less than age 17. He was transported to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment.

Bath Man Charged with Arson Following Residential Fire Investigation

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, at approximately 9:21 a.m., the New York State Police in Bath were dispatched by Steuben County 911 to 6649 State Route 415 in the town of Bath for a report of a residential structure fire.

Upon arrival, Troopers observed smoke coming from the left side of the single-story residence. It was confirmed that no individuals were inside at the time. Troopers immediately closed a portion of State Route 415 between Faucett Road and Telegraph Road to allow the Bath Volunteer Fire Department to extinguish the fire safely. A preliminary investigation indicated suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire.

On May 28, 2025, following a comprehensive fire investigation, Timothy S. DeWolf, 47, of Bath, NY, was charged with Arson 3rd (C Felony).

DeWolf was processed at SP Bath and transported to Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.

First Responder event planned in Wyoming County in June

 

Two Olean police officers under investigation by state police

For Immediate Release

William J. Aiello, Olean City Mayor

City of Olean Police Department Information

May 29, 2025—Olean—Two City of Olean Police Officers are being investigated by the New York State Police on different matters. The Olean Police Department is not involved in the investigation. Until the conclusion of the matters, the officers are suspended without pay. The officers are Patrolman Jason Boon and Patrolman Jason DeYoe.

Wellsville: Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion Family News

Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion Family News 

Reminder: Saturday, May 31^st, 2025 Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion Riders Dice Run.  Registration 9:30AM – Depart/End: Post 702 AL.

Post 702 American Legion Commander Yvonne Simmons presented certificates of American Legion continuous years to: Tom Jackson, 50 Years; Jack Kinney, 50 Years and Vince Evans, 60 Years.  Congratulations to all!

Morrison Hayes Unit 702 Wellsville American Legion Auxiliary Chair Ann Marie Hennessy presented a check for $1,500 to Allegany County Cancer Service Lisa Yates on May 28^th, 2025.

LWV Notice of Olean Mayoral Debate deadline to submit questions

Deadline for Questions for Olean Debate Is June 4

OLEAN, NY — The deadline to submit questions for the upcoming debate between the candidates running in the Republican primary for mayor is June 4 at 7 p.m. Questions should be emailed to cattarauguslwv@gmail.com   with a subject line of DEBATE QUESTIONS.

The debate between Incumbent Mayor William J. Aiello and challenger Amy B. Sherburne will take place on June 11 at 7 p.m. in the Cutco Theater on the Cattaraugus County Campus of Jamestown Community College.

The League of Women Voters of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties is sponsoring the debate in partnership with TAPinto Greater Olean.

Obituary: Brian W. Hodge, 74, of Kennedy, NY

Brian W. Hodge “beloved brother and uncle; avid sports enthusiast”

KENNEDY, NY---Brian W. Hodge, 74, of Kennedy, NY, passed away with his loving family by his side, on Friday, May 23, 2025, in Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, after a brief illness.

Born on Thursday, November 23, 1950 in Jamestown, NY, he was a son of Bernard E. and Gloria J. Hettenbaugh Hodge.   He was married to Kathie Williams Hodge, who passed away in 2018.

Brian was a graduate of Falconer High School in Falconer, NY and earned an Associate’s Degree from  Jamestown Community College in Jamestown, NY.  He was employed at various jobs in the Falconer area before his retirement.

Brian enjoyed playing pool, bowling pitching horseshoes, and fishing.  He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.

Left to cherish his memory are a brother, Dennis B. (Beth) Hodge of El Paso, TX; a sister, Sharron D. (Scott) Gustin of Shinglehouse; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved cat, Tom.

In addition to his parents and wife,  Brian was predeceased by a nephew.

In keeping with Brian’s wishes there will be no public services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Brian’s name may be made to the Chautauqua County Humane Society, 2825 Strunk Road, Jamestown, NY 14701.

Brian’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Brian, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

Free rabies clinic in Willing

 

Obituary: Jamie A. Smith, 54, Wellsville

Jamie A. SMITH, 54, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025. 

Born April 18, 1971, in Wellsville, he was the son of James and Darlene Smith. A 1990 graduate of Wellsville High School, he was employed by New Enterprise in Alfred Station for 15 years. Jamie was a member of ABATE and a past member of the American Eagles Motorcycle Club. 

Surviving are: his parents, James and Darlene Smith of Wellsville; three children, Jaime (Aaron) Fuentes of Wellsville, Brandon (Jessamine) Gallagher of Cuba, Sheyana (Dylan Briggs) Smith of Hendersonville, TN; five grandchildren, Skyler, Jaxton, Brantley, Oliver, and Adaline; a sister, Carrie Merrick of Wellsville; his paternal grandmother, Evelyn Smith of Andover; many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews, including, Jordan (Brody) Cross, Nicolas (Jaci) Cross, Ethan Brant, and Ean Brant; and several great friends. He was predeceased by a brother, Jeremy Smith; a grandson, Connor; a brother-in-law, Wes Merrick; paternal grandfather, James Smith; and maternal grandparents, Robert and Louise Geffers. 

A gathering to celebrate Jamie’s life will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Willing Town Hall from 1:00 – 6:00 PM. Burial will be in Stannards Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to ABATE or Comfort House of Allegany County. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Francis D. “Frank” Homer, 66, Allegany & formerly of Wellsville

Allegany- Francis D. “Frank” Homer “Loving Father, Grandfather & Friend”

Frank D. Homer of Emerald Hills passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

Frank was born on September 11, 1958, in Olean and was the son of Donald and Gladys Homer.

Frank was a 1977 graduate of Allegany Central School and worked at McDonalds for a period of time. He lived in Albuquerque, NM for 3 years until returning to Wellsville in 1995. Frank graduated from JCC in Olean with an associate’s degree in human services in 1987, became an EMT and later a Paramedic and worked for MTS in Scio for the next 25 years until his retirement in 2020, due to illness. Throughout his life he wrote a book, “Spirits of Wintermist” which was published November of 2012. Frank enjoyed putting together model cars, Renaissance Fairs, Dungeons & Dragons, camping, and photography.

Frank is survived by his two children, Jason D. (Samantha) Homer of Olean and Jennifer E. (Ben) Briggs of Sherman, NY., five grandchildren, Matthew, Gabriella, Isabella, Annabelle, and Rosemary, and his close friend, Carmel Foster of Allegany.

Frank was predeceased by his parents.

Friends will be received for a memorial gathering at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., Olean on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:30pm. Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center at 665 Elm Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

Obituary: Marie Smith, 50, Fawn Grove, PA

FAWN GROVE, PA---Marie Smith, 50, of Fawn Grove, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 25, 2025 while camping in Coudersport.

Born on Tuesday, May 28, 1974 in York, she was a daughter of Carl and Norma Vencill Trimble. On July 10, 2016 in Hop Bottom, she married Clarence E. “Jake” Smith, who survives.

Marie was a graduate of Kennerdale High School in Fawn Grove. She graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Science Degree from Harford Community College in Harford, MD and later graduated from Notre Dame of Maryland University in Baltimore, MD, with a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing. She was employed as a registered nurse in Upper Chesapeake Medical Center and at the time of her death was employed by MedStar Health in Baltimore, MD.

She enjoyed cooking and baking.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Jake; a son, Michael Barraco of Yorkanna; a daughter, Madison Barraco of Pylesville, MD; a brother, Chris (Michelle) Trimble of Glen Rock; a sister, Amanda Trimble of Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews.

Marie was predeceased by her parents.

A celebration of Marie’s life will be held on a date and place to be announced.

Arrangements are under the direction of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Marie, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

RELEASE | Sempolinski Opposes Bill to Limit Dairy Farms to 700 Cows

 SEMPOLINSKI OPPOSES BILL TO LIMIT DAIRY COWS

NYC Legislators Draft Plan to Limit Dairy Farms to 700 Cows

 

ALBANY – Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski is raising alarm over a bill introduced by two Legislators who represent New York City who want to limit the number of cows on dairy farms.

 

Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, D-Manhattan, and Senator Jabri Brisport, D-Brooklyn, introduced a bill (A06928/S06530) that would ban dairy farms from expanding beyond 700 cows, a move they said would protect family dairy farms. Assemblyman Sempolinski said, in fact, it would do just the opposite.

 

“This bill was drafted by two Legislators from New York City who know nothing about dairy farming but are presuming to tell New York’s dairy farmers how to run their farms,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said. “The majority of New York’s farms, more than 94 percent, are family owned. This bill has the potential to devastate family farms across New York.”

 

Assemblyman Sempolinski joined other members of the Assembly and Senate who represent farming communities in condemning the proposal.

 

“With all due respect to my colleagues from New York City, this bill is dangerously misguided. It’s a breathtaking example of legislative overreach,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said. “It takes 60,000 cows per day to supply milk to the Great Lakes Cheese Plant in Franklinville. Family run dairy farms in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Steuben counties are supplying that milk. They clearly have never visited any of our large, family owned farms upstate.”

 

According to the New York Farm Bureau, dairy is the single largest sector of New York’s agricultural economy, contributing $3.9 billion every year. New York is the fifth-largest dairy producing state in the nation.

 

“Farmers are the cornerstone of our economy,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said. “Family farms, many of them run by the same family for generations, deserve a chance to grow and thrive. I oppose any legislation that threatens the economic vitality of this critical sector of our economy.”

 

The proposed bill would bar the Department of Environmental Conservation from issuing new Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFEO) permits for large-scale dairies. A CAFO permit is required for any dairy with more than 300 cows, but the large-scale permit is required for any dairy with more than 700 cows.

 

Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski represents the 148^th New York Assembly District, which consists of all of Cattaraugus and Allegany counties and portions of Steuben County. For more information, visit Assemblyman Sempolinski’s website.

New ALICE Report Reveals Financial Hardship for Thousands in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties

OLEAN N.Y., May 29, 2025 – The latest ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report uncovers a sobering reality: a significant portion of households in Cattaraugus and Allegany counties struggle to afford basic necessities despite being employed.

ALICE households earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still cannot afford the basic cost of living in their county. This includes expenses such as housing, child care, food, transportation, and health care. The ALICE report provides a comprehensive look at these households, offering insights into the challenges they face.

"Many of our friends and neighbors are ALICE," said Susan McAuley, United Way of Cattaraugus & Allegany Counties Executive Director. "They are doing everything they can to make ends meet. We are shining a light on their struggle because with awareness comes change."

In Allegany County, 35.2% of households live below the ALICE Threshold, encompassing both ALICE and poverty-level households. With a total of 16,813 households, this indicates that over 5,900 families face financial hardship. 

In Cattaraugus County, 29.4% of households are below the ALICE Threshold out of 32,016 total households, meaning approximately 9,400 families are struggling to meet basic needs. 

These statistics, provided by United for ALICE, highlight the prevalence of financial instability among working families in our communities. The United Way of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties urges community members, businesses, and policymakers to recognize the challenges faced by ALICE households and to collaborate on solutions that promote financial stability and well-being for all residents.

United for ALICE, led by United Way of Northern New Jersey, includes United Ways, corporations, nonprofits, and foundations across the US. 

The project raises awareness about working families struggling to afford basic necessities. It provides unbiased data that is replicable, easily updated on a regular basis, and sensitive to local context. The ultimate goal of the project is to stimulate action that will improve the financial stability of ALICE families and their communities.

For more information about ALICE and to view the county-specific data, visit www.unitedforalice.org/county-reports/new-york

The United Way of Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties is dedicated to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good. Through partnerships and initiatives, we strive to create lasting change in education, income, and health.

For more information or to get involved, please visit www.uwcac.org.

Obituary: Margery M. McCUTCHEON, 61, of Westfield, PA

Margery M. McCUTCHEON, 61, of Westfield, PA, died Sunday, May 25, 2025 in UPMC Wellsboro.  She was born April 5, 1964, in Wellsboro.  On March 30, 1985, in the Federated Church, Harrison Valley, she married Duane C. McCutcheon, who survives.  A 1982 graduate of Cowanesque Valley High School, she was employed by Galeton Production, Knoxville Assembly, Ackley’s, Connie’s Market, Hot Dog House, Hurler’s Market, and Snowburg Welding Supply.  Margery was a member of Order of the Eastern Star #95 in Ulysses and was a past Worthy Matron.  She enjoyed motorcycle riding, four-wheeling, boating, camping, and going to drive-in movies.  Margie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.  Surviving besides her husband, Duane, are: a daughter, Felicia McCutcheon; three grandchildren, Temperance, Porter, and Patience; siblings, Mary Erny, Janice (Ronald) Tomb, and Robert (Rhonda) Schoonover, Jr.; nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her parents, Robert R. and Clara A. Green Schoonover; and a brother, Richard Berg.  Friends may call at the Federated Church, Harrison Valley on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 12:00 – 2:00 PM, followed by a time of sharing and an Eastern Star service.  Memorials may be made to Order of the Eastern Star #95.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Chairman W. Brooke Harris declared May 18-24, 2025, as Emergency Medical Services Week in Allegany County with the theme: We Care. For Everyone.

 

Obituary: Patricia A. Cappellini, 91, Cuba

Cuba– Patricia A. Cappellini 

Patricia A. Cappellini, 91 of Route 305 passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 24, 2025.

Friends will be received at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 24 Genesee Pkwy, Cuba on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 10:00am at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church 48 South Street Cuba, NY 14727. A complete obituary will be published. Online condolences may be made at www.LetroMcIntoshSpinkFuneralHome.com.

Patricia’s memory will be cherished for all that knew her. In place of flowers, donations can be made in her name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38104 or the Cuba Circulating Library at 39 E. Main Street Cuba, NY 14727.