RELEASE | Sempolinski - People Lose Faith in Albany for a Reason

 ALBANY – Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski said the lack of a state budget and meaningful progress toward cutting the more than quarter-trillion spending plan offered by the majority party in Albany are emblematic of why hard-working New Yorkers lose faith in state government.

“The governor and the Democrats in the Legislature want taxpayers to foot the bill for a budget of more than a quarter-trillion dollars. It’s out of control spending and out of control taxes. Instead of doing the responsible thing and finding ways to cut that and save taxpayers money, the governor is failing at the basic functions of government,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said. “School districts, cities, towns and villages are facing budget deadlines and they can’t move forward without a state budget in place.”

“This is the fourth late state budget in a row. Gov. Hochul said a few days ago that she’s not ‘in any rush’ to get a budget passed. That’s irresponsible and it leaves people twisting in the wind. This is why people lose faith in government. The most fundamental function of government is to pass an on-time budget. It’s something Democrats in Albany seem incapable of doing,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said.

Gov. Hochul delivered a $252 billion Executive Budget proposal in January, the largest in state history. In March, the Assembly Democrats proposed adding $4.5 billion to that number, with a $256.5 billion spending plan. The budget has ballooned more than $82 billion since one-party Democrat rule took over in Albany.

 

“Albany’s tax and spend culture is why New York leads the nation in outmigration. These budgets are irresponsible and indefensible. Attracting more people and businesses to New York starts with a responsible state budget that cuts spending and keeps more money in people’s pockets,” Assemblyman Sempolinski said. "People are mad at the dysfunction in Albany and have every right to be. Sadly, incompetence is business as usual in New York State. It's not fair to the hard-working citizens of the Empire State."

 

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.

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Jones Memorial CEO to speak at Grace United Church April 15th

From Grace United Church on N. Main Street in Wellsville: Join us Tuesday (April 15th) as we hear from Jim Helms, the CEO of Jones Memorial Hospital.  He'll fill us in on what's new and what's to come for healthcare in Allegany County.  

Everyone's welcome.  There will be a light lunch at 12:30 and the program will start at 1 pm.  No reservations required!

WNY: Critic for child abuse arrested for sex crimes against children

On April 9, 2025, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation stationed at SP Clarence arrested John C. Todaro, 49 of Amherst, NY for Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child (D Felony) and Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child (E Felony).

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation out of SP Clarence with the assistance from the Troop A Computer Crimes Unit, conducted an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation in the town of Amherst.  Investigation determined Todaro possessed child pornography and was disseminating child pornography.

Todaro is the Vice President and active member of, Bikers Against Child Abuse Buffalo Chapter. Todaro would have had opportunities to be around children and child victims.

Todaro was arraigned in the town of Amherst Court and was released on own recognizance and scheduled to return to court in May 2025.

If you have any information, you can contact the NYSP at 585-344-6200.

The mission of the ICAC Task Force is to identify individuals online who are attempting to lure children to meet for sex or those disseminating child sexual abuse material. The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program (ICAC program) helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children.

PennDOT - District 2 News: PennDOT Closing One Lane of Route 770 Thursday Due to Slide

Clearfield, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) McKean County Maintenance Division announced it will close a portion of the westbound lane of Route 770 (Warren Road) heading toward Warren on Thursday, April 10. PennDOT is closing the lane due to a slide condition starting approximately half a mile west of Shep Run Road and continuing westbound for a quarter mile.

PennDOT will place temporary traffic signals at each end of the slide to direct traffic around the area via the eastbound lane. It expects the lane to be closed indefinitely while a project to correct the condition is designed and bid. PennDOT does not have a timetable for when repairs will begin but will issue updates as more information becomes available.

The average number of vehicles that travel this portion of Route 770 per day is 1,336. PennDOT anticipates minimal traffic impacts but encourages drivers to allow extra time for their commute.

SBU offers early college opportunities for high schoolers

ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y., April 9, 2025 — Local high school students can accelerate their academic journey through St. Bonaventure University’s Early College Access programs, which allow them to earn affordable college credits while gaining real-world academic experience.

Since 2017, St. Bonaventure has offered dual-enrollment courses, pairing university faculty with qualified local high school instructors to ensure rigorous, relevant coursework that prepares students for future success.

“At St. Bonaventure, we are dedicated to making college more accessible and preparing students for success beyond high school,” said Xiao-Ning Zhang, Ph.D., program coordinator, Biology professor and director of the Biochemistry program at St. Bonaventure. “Our expanding dual-enrollment offerings allow more students to gain valuable college experience while still in high school, giving them a head start in their academic journey.”

All courses in the program meet the New York state requirement for the Early Access CoSer via CABOCES, further increasing accessibility for students.

High school students can choose from a range of college-level courses, spanning STEM, health sciences and the humanities, including:

• Introduction to Biotechnology and Laboratory (BIO 135 & BIOL 135, 4 credits, Olean) – Explore biotechnology’s role in society through scientific investigation and critical analysis.
• Computer Science I & II and Laboratory (CS 131 & CSL 131 / CS 132 & CSL 132, 4 credits, Portville & Scio) – Learn Java programming, software design and problem-solving strategies in this two-course sequence.
• Precalculus (MATH 108, 3 credits, Scio) – Strengthen algebra, trigonometry and analytic geometry skills to prepare for calculus and higher-level math courses.
• Calculus I & II (MATH 151 & 152, 4 credits each, Scio) – Study foundational and advanced calculus concepts, including derivatives, integrals, sequences and series.
• American Politics (POLS102, 3 credits, Olean) – Examine the intersection of politics, economics and social structures, with a focus on democracy and human rights.
• Health-Related Fitness & Wellness (HS 107, 3 credits, Olean) – Gain insight into fitness principles, health assessments and nutrition trends for personal well-being.

 

A second part of the Early College Access program, Giant Step, offers qualified local secondary school students the opportunity to take regular St. Bonaventure classes on campus and receive transcripts for their work.

 

“I am grateful to Dr. Zhang and our faculty for delivering high-quality early-access college courses that uphold St. Bonaventure’s strong educational reputation,” said Dr. David Hilmey, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “We aim to equip regional students for college success with valuable degree credits.”

Enrolling in these Early College Access programs allows high school students to start their college experience while still in high school. Benefits include strengthening college applications and building critical thinking, time management and study skills.

Current partner school districts, including Olean, Portville and Scio, commend St. Bonaventure’s program for its exceptional support and academic rigor. They emphasize the program’s ability to provide students with challenging opportunities and valuable college preparation within their local communities.

St. Bonaventure is actively seeking new partnerships with high schools to collaborate on existing and new dual-enrollment opportunities.

“We’re looking forward to partnering with more high schools to expand access to college-level learning,” Zhang said. “By working together, we can provide students with high-quality education and help schools strengthen their academic offerings.”

High school teachers and administrators interested in offering St. Bonaventure dual-enrollment courses are encouraged to contact Zhang at xzhang@sbu.edu.

For more information about St. Bonaventure’s Early Access programs and to apply, visit www.sbu.edu/earlyaccess.

Democrats to Collect for ACCORD’s Food Pantry in Belmont

 

Democrats to Collect for ACCORD’s Food Pantry in Belmont

 

Belmont, NY – When the Allegany County Democratic Committee hosts its monthly “Coffee with Democrats” on Saturday, April 12^th in Belmont, they’ll be collecting non-perishable food and personal care items to be donated to the Food Pantry at ACCORD's ACCESS Center, 84 Schuyler St in Belmont. This is one small way county Democrats “serve our community.”

The event runs from 9:30 am - 11:30 am at Belmont American Legion Post 808, 29 Schuyler St.  and is open to all registered Democrats and friends of the committee. Coffee and light snacks will be served. Sign up here to attend.

The Allegany County Democratic Committee is the official governing body for the County Party, working toward broader representation by Democrats at the local, state, and national levels.  To learn more, visit www.acdcny.org, or contact us at 585-610-4321, info@acdcny.org, or on Facebook (  facebook.com/alleganycodems ), Threads  (  threads.net/@allegany_ny_dems  ), or Bluesky  ( @allegany-ny-dems.bsky.social ).  Sign up to receive our monthly e-communications here . 

ACCESS Center Food Pantry Has Formula

 

TWO JAMESTOWN WOMEN CHARGED IN SEPARATE COMPLAINTS WITH NARCOTICS CONSPIRACY

 BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Sabrina Flores a/k/a Notorious Marie, 24, and Sandra Pavlock a/k/a Sondra L. Pavlock, 45, both of Jamestown, NY, were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaints, Flores and Pavlock have been identified by law enforcement as associates of Zaid Mendoza, who, along with others, were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of narcotics conspiracy and sex trafficking. Search warrants executed on Facebook accounts recovered multiple conversations between Flores and Zaid, Pavlock and Zaid, and others, discussing drug trafficking and sex trafficking activities. Flores and Pavlock conversed with Zaid and others regarding the sale and use of narcotics, including heroin and fentanyl, in the Jamestown area. 

 

The complaints are the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.

 

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Obituary: Michelle D. Phillips, 45, Little Genesee

Little Genesee- Michelle Diane Phillips “Loving Mother & Nonna”

Michelle D. Phillips of Salt Rising Road passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Olean General Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer.

Michelle was born on July 1, 1979, in Olean and was the daughter of Roger J. and Nancy D. Rogers Phillips.

Michelle owned and operated Main Street Pizzeria for a period of time in the early 2000s. She then became a stay-at-home mother where she raised her daughters and later took care of her two granddaughters who were the apple of her eye. Michelle also helped raise her step grandchildren. She enjoyed arts & crafts, including woodworking, and ceramics. She was known as being a very talented and creative person who also loved caring for her animals.

Michelle is survived by her two daughters, Nancy D. (Zarek) Price of Port Allegany and Destiny M. Learn of Bolivar, two granddaughters Everleigh and Octavia Price, her father, Roger J. (Karen) Phillips of Summerfield, FL., three brothers, Jason (Beth) Phillips of Kenbridge, VA., Corey (Veronica) Phillips of Millport, PA., and Andrew Phillips of Olean, two step brothers, Todd (Carissa) Welka of Virginia Beach, and Brian Welka of Cattaraugus.

Michelle was predeceased by her mother, Nancy D. Rogers on September 4, 1991, and a brother, Shawn P. Phillips on September 11, 2019.

Friends will be received at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., Olean on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00pm at which time a memorial service will be held. The Rev. Rick L. Price will officiate. Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com

Partial Obituary: Gretta Lee Olmstead, 77, of Shinglehouse

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA---Gretta Lee Olmstead, 77, of Shinglehouse, passed away with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, after a long illness.

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.

Allegany County Job Board

Allegany County Job Board

1. Manager – Allegany First Federal Credit Union – Fillmore – Full Time – Salary Negotiable on Experience – To Apply Email Resume to: jody@alleganyfirstfcu.com

2. Assistant Director – Allegany County Industrial Development Agency – Full Time - $80k/year – Range D.O.E. – To View Job Posting, Requirements & How to Apply: https://www.acida.org/

3. Sales Associate – Crosby’s – Alfred – Part Time - $15.50-$17/hour – Apply Online: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/326fdb8bd4c74fe287b8ea62c4420ef1161

4. Life Coach II – The Arc – Wellsville – Full Time - $17.60/hour – Appy Online: https://jobs.dayforcehcm.com/.../arcalleganyst.../jobs/29538

5. Overnight Floor Maintenance – Giant – Wellsville – Part Time - $15.50-$16/hour – Apply Online: https://clients.hrscreening.com/.../careersdetailpage...

6. Deli Clerk – Giant – Wellsville – Hours TBD - $15.50-$16/hour – Apply Online: https://clients.hrscreening.com/.../careersdetailpage...

7. Laborers – Walker Staffing – Franklinville – Full Time -$16.50/hour - Apply Online: https://walkerservices.com/general-application/

8. Assistant Store Manager – Crosby’s – Friendship – Full Time - $17.50-$19.50/hour – Apply Online: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/7c56e7dd2dae4210ae4bcb3a6596e4a9161

9. Cleaner – ManPower Group – Houghton – $15.75/hour – For More Info & To Apply: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/a7c3c89fc8484132a9ea692b5d796bc1161

10. Crew Member – Dunkin’ Donuts – Belmont – All Shifts Available - $15.50-$16.50/hour – Apply Online: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/08f4bef0dcce4a44806f3d7feff76f56161

11. Sales Associate – AutoZone – Wellsville – Full Time - $15.50-$15.79/Hour – Apply Online: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/1352dc9767614b788ab70964b1fa35dc161

12. Seasonal Help - Saputo Cheese – Friendship – Full Time – Short Term - $21/hour – Apply Online: https://nlx.jobsyn.org/539c4b75c35f49048dfa67629be9dcc6161

RELEASE | Senator George Borrello Blasts Radical 'Early Release' Measures Moving through Albany

PRESS RELEASE: ALBANY, NY — Senator George Borrello blasted Senate Democrats for advancing two dangerous pieces of legislation that would fast-track the release of criminals from prison. The so-called “Earned Time Act” (S.342) and the ‘Fair and Timely Parole’ bill (S.159) moved forward today through the Senate Crime Victims, Crime and Correction Committee, despite serious concerns about their impact on public safety, justice for victims, and accountability for violent offenders.

“These bills are just the latest chapters in Albany Democrats’ ongoing crusade to put criminals before the law-abiding public,” said Senator Borrello. “This isn’t about justice, nor is it about rehabilitation — it’s about dismantling accountability and rewriting the rules to benefit violent offenders, all while making innocent victims and law-abiding New Yorkers pay the price.”

“It is especially offensive that these bills are moving forward during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. At a time when we should be recognizing the victims and families who’ve suffered from the impact of violent crime, these bills seek to elevate and benefit the perpetrators of crime,” said Borrello. “It is a slap in the face to every victim who is still coping with the trauma of what was done to them or their loved one.”

The bills that passed the committee include:   

• S159, the so-called “Fair and Timely Parole” bill which would dramatically weaken the parole process by requiring a presumption of release unless the Parole Board can prove the individual poses a “current and unmanageable risk” to public safety. The Board would no longer be able to consider the inmate’s original crime — no matter how vicious or brutal — or the scope of the inmate’s full criminal record, victim impact statements, or many other factors in making their decision.

• S342, the "Earned Time Act," would allow inmates to reduce their sentences by up to 75 percent through good time and merit allowances, regardless of the severity of their crimes. Unlike the current system, the bill would also prevent revocation of the credits, even if the inmate engages in misconduct behind bars. Importantly, these changes would apply retroactively to all current inmates. 

“These bills aren’t just a step backwards — they are the next nail in the coffin of public safety in New York. Since 2019, we’ve seen how Democrats’ reckless bail reforms have turned our neighborhoods into breeding grounds for crime, and now these bills would only accelerate that trend by making it easier for dangerous criminals to walk free,” said Borrello. “This is how you deepen a crime crisis, something that Democrats seem determined to do by advancing their radical agenda, no matter the cost to the public.”

CCE - Grow More Tomatoes and Fewer Leaves Workshop

BELMONT, NEW YORK (April 8, 2025) -- Cornell Cooperative Extension is excited to announce: 

Grow More Tomatoes and Fewer Leaves Workshop

Do you dream of harvesting baskets full of ripe, juicy tomatoes but end up with more leaves than fruit? You're not alone! Whether you're a first-time gardener or looking to level up your tomato crop, this workshop is for you. Join us for this annual hands-on workshop, where you’ll learn the techniques to grow healthier and more productive tomato plants.

In this workshop, you’ll discover: 

• Tomato plant care and maintenance
• How to keep your plants growing strong all season
• Ways to grow more tomatoes in less space
• Techniques used in large-scale tomato production

Plus, you’ll get your hands dirty with interactive activities and go home with tomato plants and materials to start your 2025 tomato garden.

 

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025.
​Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
​Location: CCE Belmont Office. 5435 County Road 48, Belmont, NY 14813. 
​Fee: $10

How to join:

Participating in this tomato workshop is easy! Simply visit https://allegany.cce.cornell.edu/events, look for this event and register to secure your spot. For any questions, please contact Cristian Acosta at cfa34@cornell.edu or calling 585-268-7644 ext 14.

 

“Grow More Tomatoes and Fewer Leaves Workshop” is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Allegany County. The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university Cornell administers the system in this state. For more information, call 585-268-7644 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/allegany. Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Man headed to prison for Buffalo to Olean/Bonaventure drug circuit

 BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nader Ngoopos a/k/a Nike, 26, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison pleaded guilty by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that between 2016, and late 2018, Ngoopos agreed with others to obtain cocaine and heroin in the Buffalo area and travel to Olean, NY, to distribute the cocaine and heroin. Ngoopos personally traveled to Olean on at least a weekly basis, selling cocaine and heroin out of various locations in Olean, including North 8th Street and South 11th Street. Co-conspirators also sold cocaine and heroin as part of the conspiracy on a weekly basis.

On October 15, 2018, Ngoopos participated in an armed robbery at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, with two others. The three gained entry to a dormitory at St. Bonaventure, and broke into a dorm room where Ngoopos, who possessed a firearm, believed he and his co-conspirators would find marijuana and money. Once they gained entry, Ngoopos and his co-conspirators pointed their firearms at the heads of the two occupants of the dorm room, threatened them, and then stole about an ounce of marijuana and approximately $300 - $400.

On September 2, 2021, law enforcement officers observed Ngoopos get into a vehicle in Buffalo. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but it sped away leading officers on a high-speed chase. Eventually, the car came to a stop on East Amherst Street. As the car came to a stop, Ngoopos got out of the car and ran away, dropping a pistol. In June 2020, Ngoopos was convicted in Cattaraugus County Court of a felony and legally prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Alphonse Wright, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.

New York State Police Blotter – April 7, 2025

New York State Police Blotter – April 7, 2025

4/7/25 6:02 p.m.- While investigating an incident in the town of Cuba, state police arrested Robayat Rahman, 24, of Buffalo, Naing N. OO, 20, of Buffalo and Abdul Karim, 20, of Buffalo. Troopers charged each man with felony second-degree criminal possession of a loaded firearm-other than a person’s home or business, felony third-degree criminal possession of an assault weapon and unlawful possession of an ammunition feeding device. After processing, the men were transported to the Allegany County Jail for Central arraignment. They were booked shortly before 11 p.m.

4/7/25 10:42 p.m.- During a traffic stop in the town of Portville, state police arrested Christopher Michael Elliott, 50, of Portville. He was charged with driving while intoxicated-first offense and having a BAC above .08%. He appear in court at a later date.

Wellsville Police Blotter - April 7, 2025

Date: Monday April 7, 2025

Wellsville Police acting on an Arrest Warrant, arrested Amy L. Petrillo, age 45 of Wellsville, charging her with Harassment 2nd (Violation).  The charge stems from an incident that took place on March 31st on North Main Street.  Petrillo was processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Petrillo is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

Allegany County man charged in Olean gun crime

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Olean Police respond to armed disturbance at 124 N Barry St; Suspect taken into custody without incident.

Olean, NY – April 3, 2025 – at approximately 6:35 p.m., the Olean Police Department received a call reporting a male subject acting erratically and waving a gun around at 124 N Barry St, Apartment 5. In response, Olean Police, with support from the New York State Police, quickly established a perimeter around the apartment building to ensure the safety of the community and surrounding area.

According to dispatch reports, a description of the male subject was immediately provided. Within minutes, a male matching the description was observed descending the staircase from apartment #5. Officers on scene swiftly took control of the situation.

During the encounter, the male subject identified as Nathan A. Karns (31) of Little Genesee, NY and was found in possession of a hand gun.

Olean Police successfully took Mr. Karns into custody without further incident. He was transported to the Olean Police Department for processing.

Karns has been charged with Felony Criminal Possession of a weapon 2nd degree, Felony Reckless Endangerment 1st degree, Menacing 2nd degree and Endangering the welfare of a child. Karns was arraigned and remanded to Cattaraugus County Jail in Little Valley.

Whitesville Fire Dept selects officers

This past Saturday night, the Whitesville Volunteer Fire Department gathered for our Annual Dinner—a night of celebration, reflection, and appreciation for the incredible dedication shown by our members throughout the year.

We’re proud to officially introduce our 2025 Officers and Chiefs:

Chief (50): Todd Sherman

1st Assistant Chief (501): Josh Kear

2nd Assistant Chief (502): Greg Howe

President: Jim Waite

Vice President: John Kuhn

Treasurer: Roger Easton

Secretary: Mike Hall

Chaplain: Cory Hixson

A huge congratulations to our Award Recipients for 2024:

Top 6 Responders (out of 62 calls):

Todd Sherman - 53

Cory Hixson - 42

Denny Erdmann - 36

AJ Kuhn - 34

Greg Howe - 31

Spencer Mattison - 30

Top Responder Award: Cory Hixson

Top Driver Award: Denny Erdmann

Chief’s Award: Spencer Mattison 

Past President’s Award: Denny Erdmann

25 Years - Life Member Recognition: Jason Fry

Over 20 Years of Dedicated Service as a Line Officer: Brad Mattison

We’re incredibly proud of the hard work, commitment, and heart every member puts into serving our community. Here’s to another year of service, strength, and community.

Alfred State College students benefit from Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc. scholarship assistance

Alfred State students continue to benefit from scholarship assistance provided by the Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc. The foundation supports the college in a variety of ways, including providing much-needed scholarship assistance.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Educational Foundation provided $185,000 to support students financially through scholarship awards. This assistance has positively impacted over 1,000 Alfred State students, who are receiving one of the following scholarships: Alfred State Pioneer Awards, Academic Distinction, Phi Theta Kappa, Transfer, or Vocational Excellence.

Sophomore Building Trades: Building Construction major Jack LaRouech benefits from a scholarship he received to attend Alfred State. “It is a really good education. You build so much experience here and just having Alfred State on your resume is big. You get a lot of education and knowledge.”

LaRouech has enjoyed Alfred State so much he is considering pursuing an additional degree. “I have been deeply considering doing a 2+2 program and either getting a construction management or supervision degree. If I get the business knowledge and skills it will help me towards owning my own business.”

Watch Jack’s Pioneer PROfile video

The Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc. is a private foundation dedicated to improving the college community through the support of educational programs. A board of directors made up of representatives from alumni, faculty and staff, and friends of the college govern the activities pursued by the Educational Foundation of Alfred, Inc.

The Ed Foundation supports learning opportunities for students through scholarships, peer tutoring, and community service projects. The Ed Foundation also funds the Building Trades home construction project.

The Foundation owns and maintains the School of Applied Technology campus in Wellsville. The campus is recognized as one of the best applied technology schools in the nation.

State Police announce crackdown on distracted driving

The New York State Police will participate in a national crackdown on distracted driving as part of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The enforcement effort, called Operation Hang Up, will include increased patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel. This year’s enforcement detail will run through Monday, April 14, 2025.

Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles to more easily identify motorists who are using handheld devices while driving. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe distracted driving violations.  These vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,308 people were killed in the United States in distraction-affected crashes in 2022.

During the April 2024 Operation Hang Up campaign, State Police issued 21,768 tickets, including 4,056 tickets for distracted driving.

To help prevent more tragedies, NHTSA recommends the following for motorists:

• If you must send or receive a text, pull over to a safe location and park your car first.
• If you have passengers, appoint a “designated texter” to handle all your texting.
• If you can’t resist the temptation to look at your phone, keep it in the trunk.

Current New York State law includes the following penalties for distracted drivers:

• For a first offense, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum is $200
• A second offense in 18 months increases the maximum fine to $250
• A third offense in 18 months results in a maximum fine of $450
• Probationary and junior drivers face a 120-day suspension of their license for a first offense, and one-year revocation of their permit or license if a second offense is committed within six months