Replacement of SR 415 Bridges and Construction of Roundabout, Steuben County

New York State Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner Paul A. Karas today announced that preliminary work has begun on a $7.8 million project to replace two bridges on State Route 415 in Steuben County, one over the Cohocton River in the town of Bath and the other over Salmon Creek in the town of Avoca.  The project also will construct a roundabout at the intersection of Routes 415 and 53 near the Bath bridge, enhancing safety and smoothing traffic flow there.

 

“Governor Cuomo’s investments in infrastructure are making a difference in communities large and small,” Acting Commissioner Karas said.  “The new bridges and new roundabout at a busy intersection in Steuben County will help ensure that products get to market, make it easier for travelers to get to where they need to go and keep the Southern Tier Soaring.”

 

This project calls for the 87-year-old truss bridge on Route 415 in Bath to be replaced with a new bridge on a new alignment nearby.  The old bridge will carry traffic until the new bridge is ready to open late this year. Finishing work, including landscaping, demolition of the old bridge and construction of a new fishing access location, is scheduled to be completed during the summer of 2020.

 

Nearby, a new roundabout will be constructed at Route 415 and 53, along a route commonly traveled to access Interstate 86. The roundabout, scheduled to be opened this summer, will enable traffic to flow more freely through this intersection.

 

The project also will replace the 78-year-old Route 415 bridge over Salmon Creek in Avoca.  Construction is scheduled to be completed this summer.  During construction, the existing bridge is scheduled to be closed from April 15 to August 15.  Vehicle and pedestrian detours will be posted in advance.

  

Senator Thomas O'Mara said, "We appreciate the ongoing work of our regional Department of Transportation to undertake and complete these vital infrastructure projects across the Southern Tier. These investments in Steuben County to replace two bridges and provide some new fishing access will greatly improve motorist safety, ease the flow of traffic for area residents, and help enhance the overall quality of local communities."

 

Assemblyman Philip Palmesano said, "Now more than ever our communities, motorists, and taxpayers deserve a strong commitment from the state to rebuild our local and state roads and bridges.  Thank you to the New York State Department of Transportation for this commitment.  The new roundabout and replacement of two bridges on State Route 415 in Steuben County will help provide safe and reliable transportation for the daily commuters, school buses, first responders and all who travel this road."

 

Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler said, “Steuben County is thankful for the state’s investment in our transportation infrastructure.  These improvements will benefit our residents, businesses, and travelers for decades to come.”

 

Steuben County Legislative Chair Joseph Hauryski said, “I am pleased to see the state making this kind of investment in improving the infrastructure in Steuben County. We certainly appreciate it.”

 

Motorists are reminded that fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone.  In accordance with the Work Zone Safety Act of 2005, convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver license.

Acclaim Duo to Perform at Houghton College

Two well-known Houghton musicians will bring an eclectic blend of classical, jazz and contemporary Christian compositions to their Artist Series concert on Friday, February 22, at 8:00 p.m. in Wesley Chapel. The concert is open to the public; advance sale tickets are $7 for youth and $16 for adults and can be purchased at www.houghton.edu/music/artist-series/. 
Acclaim Duo is composed of Dr. William John Newbrough and Dr. Armenio Suzano. Classical pianist and composer Newbrough is professor of piano, director of piano studies and Csehy Summer School of Music piano faculty member. Suzano is dean and director of the Greatbatch School of Music and will be playing clarinet and saxophone at this concert. Acclaim Duo formed as a result of “two musicians who share professional admiration and a high regard for each other as colleagues,” said Suzano.
In 2014, Newbrough was awarded the Horne Blanchard Endowed Chair of Music at Houghton, and, in 2012, he became the Mabel Barnum Davidson Distinguished Professor of Fine Arts. He has won many international and national piano competitions and performed in countless solo, chamber music and concerto venues in the United States, Canada, Mexico, England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Russia, South Korea and Australia. Newbrough has performed in Carnegie Hall; the Sydney Opera House; the French Embassy in Washington, D.C.; and the Chopin Foundation in San Francisco.
He performs his own hymn arrangements in churches, colleges, and for charity and benefit concerts. He has three sacred piano CDs on the Mark Customs Recording label as well as a full-length production DVD, Benediction. Newbrough holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley and a master’s degree, artist diploma and doctorate from Peabody Conservatory of Music/Johns Hopkins University.
Suzano was born in Brazil and, at the age of 16, won a competition to become the youngest member ever of the renowned Rio de Janeiro Opera House Symphony Orchestra, where he served as assistant principal clarinetist for nine years. He has performed with the Northwestern University and University of Michigan Symphony orchestras, the South Bend (Ill.) Symphony, and Kalamazoo (Mich.) Symphony Orchestra. 
He holds a bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, where he was selected as Outstanding Music Graduate and received the President’s Award; a master’s degree from Northwestern University; and a doctorate from the University of Michigan, where he won the concerto competition. 
“The name Acclaim comes from two Biblical references—Psalms 89 and 145—where we are instructed to ‘acclaim’ our God for who He is,” said Suzano. “We are reminded of our responsibility to pass on to other generations the eternal beauties and magnificence of God’s mighty works. That’s what we believe we are doing with our music performances.” Newbrough and Suzano have been performing together for five years but just picked their name last year.

Allegany County offers "sharps containers" at no charge

Allegany County, in conjunction with the NYS Aids Institute and the ESAP Program, offers Sharps containers, at no charge, to all Allegany County Residents. These containers are available at all Allegany County Transfer Stations as well as all Allegany County pharmacies. These containers are for the disposal of lancets, needles and other medical related sharps products. When full, these containers may be placed in a Sharps Kiosk at any Allegany County Transfer Station. These containers are NOT for the disposal of any radioactive or chemotherapeutic materials. For more information contact Tim Palmiter at 585-268-7282.

For more information on recycling and solid waste in Allegany County, please visit us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1964199576962009/

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on January 31, 2019, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office assisted the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office with the arrest of Kerri R. Cobb, age 30 of Bolivar, on a Bench Warrant issued by Monroe County Court. Cobb was located by Deputies, processed, and turned over to the custody of Monroe County Deputies.

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on January 30, 2019, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Lea M. Falcone, age 34 of Freedom, on an Allegany County Family Court Warrant.  Falcone was processed and transported to the Town of Friendship Court where she was arraigned and remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $2500 cash or $5,000 bond. Falcone is due to reappear in Allegany County Family Court at a later date for additional court action.

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on January 30, 2019, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Thomas M. Porchia, age 37 of Wellsville, on a Violation of Probation Warrant issued by the Town of Belfast Court.  Porchia was processed and transported to the Town of Belfast Court where he was arraigned and remanded to the Allegany County Jail without bail. Porchia is due to reappear in the Town of Belfast Court on March 12, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. for additional court action.

Allegany County Sheriff Ricky L. Whitney reports that on January 28, 2019, with the assistance of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Deputies arrested Tony C. Engert, age 30 of Rochester, on a Violation of Probation Warrant issued by the Town of Friendship Court.  Engert was processed and transported to the Town of Friendship Court where he was arraigned and remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $10,000 cash or $20,000 bond. Engert is due to reappear in the Town of Friendship Court on March 5, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. for additional court action.

Obituary: Elizabeth I. “Betty” Slingerland, 87, of Wellsville,

Elizabeth I. “Betty” Slingerland, 87, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Wednesday, February 6, 2019 in her home surrounded by her family. Born November 7, 1931, in Duke Center, PA, she was the daughter of George W. and Agnes Nelson Freeman.  On October 14, 1950, in Kane, PA, she married Lyle R. Slingerland, who survives.  A 1949 graduate of Kane High School, she was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Betty and her husband resided in Wellsville since 1966.  Surviving besides her husband, Lyle, are:  two daughters, Rebecca (Gary) Messing of State College, PA and Kristine Slingerland of Wellsville;  a son-in-law, Thomas Slavin, Sr. of Wellsville;  five grandchildren, Andrea (Gregory) Gettman of St. Louis, MO, Joshua (Nicole) Messing of State College, Michele (Lloyd) Campbell of Wellsville, Thomas (Elice) Slavin, Jr. of Wellsville, and Theresa (Dustin) George of Perry;  nine great-grandchildren, Jason, Nicole, Daniel, Madison, Taylor, Loren, Hannah, Liam, and Grayson, with a tenth soon to arrive;  three great-great-grandchildren, Hunter, Xavier, and Layne;  a sister, Deanne Sierka of Colorado Springs, CO;  nieces and nephews;  and caregivers, Cathy Valley, Angela Rhodes, and Kim Crowner.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a daughter, Marilyn E. Slavin on August 22, 2009;  three sisters, Marjorie Jones, Pauline Griswold, and Virginia DiFrancesco;  and a brother, George Swanson.  Friends may call at Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville on Sunday, February 10, 2019 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 3:00 PM.  The Rev. Gregory DeSalvatore will officiate. Burial will be in Bridgeview Cemetery, Mt. Jewett, PA.  Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Michael T. Eck, 63, Scio

Michael T. Eck, 63, of Scio, NY, died Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at his home. Born May 8, 1955, in Olean, he was the son of Gordon and Jean Keesler Eck.  A graduate of Richburg High School, he was employed by Southern Tier Concrete in Alfred for many years.  Surviving are:  three children, Christina (Anson) Beckwith of Bolivar, Clayton Eck and Cory Eck, both of Wellsville;  three grandchildren;  former wife, Barbara Eck of Wellsville;  four siblings, Rebecca (George) Webster of Scio, Brete Eck of Scio, David (Debbie) Eck of Friendship, and Daniel Eck of Scio;  nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents;  and a sister, Juanita Eck.  Friends may call at Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 2:00 PM. The Rev. Carl Kemp will officiate. Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio.  Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Flood Watch issued for Allegany County and others

Flood Watch
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1026 AM EST Thu Feb 7 2019

Niagara-Orleans-Monroe-Genesee-Wyoming-Livingston-Chautauqua-
Cattaraugus-Allegany-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Niagara Falls, Medina, Rochester,
Batavia, Warsaw, Geneseo, Jamestown, Olean, Wellsville,
Orchard Park, and Springville
1026 AM EST Thu Feb 7 2019

...FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT THROUGH FRIDAY MORNING...

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has expanded the

* Flood Watch to include a portion of western New York...including the following counties...Allegany...Cattaraugus...  Chautauqua...Genesee...Livingston...Monroe...Niagara...
Orleans...Southern Erie and Wyoming.

* Through Friday morning.

* Ice jams will again be a concern as river ice starts to break up with notably higher temperatures today and tonight resulting in
additional runoff from melting ice combined with recent rainfall. In addition, rivers and creeks may reach minor flood
stage.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on
current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to
flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. Stay tuned to weather radio or other radio and tv
stations for further details or updates.

Scio Church to Love on the Community

David Peralta

SCIO -- An area church will love on the broader community on Valentine's Day with a free spaghetti dinner and mini-concert for couples, individuals and families.
Reservations now are being taken by Knights Creek Church, 2987 Knights Creek Road (County Road 9), Scio, for 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. dinner settings by contacting bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503 with name, community of residence, which setting time, telephone number, and number of children and adults in the party.  Walk-ins also will be accepted but on a space available basis only.

David Peralta, a music missionary to the church for the past year and a member of the Simon Bolivar Venezuelan National Symphony Orchestra, will provide a mini-concert of Christian and classical music following each dinner time.

Rev. Carl Kemp, church pastor, said the event is part of an expanded outreach to the community that started about a year ago, with it also hosting free community dinners weekly following its 11 a.m. Sunday service.

The musical presentation also is an adjunct to its Venezuelan music team play during Sunday services and other church and community activities, along with free music lessons being provided to children and adults as part of its efforts to develop a community-wide children and youth choir and orchestra.

Knights Creek, which describes itself as A Country Church with the Heart of Christ, also has enhanced or added other community offerings, with community prayer for individual, community, county, state, national and world concerns from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. each weekday; Celebrate Recovery at 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays for individuals experiencing any type of hurt, hangup, habit or life struggles, even years later; developing a companion ministry, the Landing, for teens; participation in a second companion Celebrate Recovery Inside ministry for inmates at Allegany County Jail; music presentations and an opportunity for children and adults to try out instruments at community events; a summer music camp for children; Surviving the Holidays and Help Grieving Children presentations for adults struggling with the effects of the loss of a loved one due to death or separation or divorce; and First Friday of the month activities of a Coffee House of music, games, refreshments and more, alternating with a movie night.  All of the activities are free.

The church also holds 6 p.m. Sunday night services, a 6 p.m. Wednesday night Bible study, and 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Sunday morning studies of subjects such as Life's Healing Choices and When God's People Pray.  Members also are involved with development of the new Hope Center outreach and reading assistance initiative in Wellsville and the Mission Genesee Valley Journey to Transformation community transformation and revival initiative.

Further information on these activities is available from Casey Jones, church outreach assistance, at bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503 and at www.facebook.com/KnightsCreekChurch.

Complete Obituary: John Orlando “Jack” McCumber, 80, of Alma

John McCumber “beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother”

ALMA, N.Y.- John Orlando “Jack” McCumber, 80, of Alma, passed away in his home with his wife by his side on Monday, February 4, 2019, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on July 18, 1938 in Conneaut, Ohio, he was a son of Andrew Jackson McCumber and Jennie “Marie” VonWie McCumber.  On May 14, 2005 in Alma, he married Darlene M. Green, who survives.

Jack was a graduate of Newbury (Ohio) High School where he played football.  Jack served in the U.S. Army Reserves and the Army National Guard.

His first job as a teenager was as a driver for Senator John Boehner in Ohio.  He was employed as a truck driver for Manfredi Trucking in Newbury, Ohio, Rimes Trucking in Chardon, Ohio, and lastly by Short’s Oil and Propane in Wellsville until retiring in 2000.

An avid outdoorsman, Jack loved all wildlife.  He also loved to hunt, fish, trap, and anything pertaining to the outdoors.  He enjoyed snowmobiling, 3 and 4 wheeling, dirt bikes, motorcycles, boating, and vacationing in Canada.  An avid runner, Jack ran in several marathons.  He loved to entertain, dance, listen to all kinds of music, and cooking for his friends.  He also loved his dogs, Missy and Hoochie.

Surviving besides his wife are a daughter, Kim McCumber Lorenz of Chardon, Ohio; a son, John McCumber of Cherry Valley, Ohio; a stepdaughter, Elizabeth (Jason) Nikkel of Georgia; a granddaughter, Jessica McCumber of North Carolina; six step-grandchildren; two sisters, Mary Jane Stemmer of Chardon, Ohio and Marie Crooks of Erie; and several nieces and nephews, including Debbie Stemmer of Chardon, Ohio.

In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by Blackie and Rosemary Blackington of Newbury, who lovingly raised Jack and his sister, Mary Jane; a son, Todd McCumber; a stepson, Tim Crowder; a sister, Patty McCumber; and a brother, Andy McCumber.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Jack’s life at 1pm on Sunday, February 10, 2019, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa.  Pastor Thomas Isaacson of Grace Bible Independent Baptist Church, Shinglehouse, will officiate.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SPCA Serving Allegany County, 1374 NY-19, Wellsville, NY 14895.

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

To express condolences, share a fond memory, or view a video tribute of Jack, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.

Belfast Youth Center to Host World Class Musician

TEENS WATCH INTENTLY at the Powerhouse Youth Center in Fillmore recently as David Peralta, a member of the Simon Bolivar Venezuelan Symphony Orchestra and a music missionary at Knights Creek Church at Scio, demonstrates music on his viola.  The world-class musician, who seeks to interest children, youth and adults in music will play and have instruments available to try out during a free Community Coffee House February 15 at the Lifeway Youth Center in Belfast

BELFAST - A Community Coffee House at Lifeway Youth Center here will host a world-class Venezuelan musician this month who will be encouraging children and youth to become involved in music.

David Peralta, a music missionary at Knights Creek Church at Scio and a member of the Simon Bolivar Venezuelan National Symphony Orchestra, will play at different times during the 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. event on Friday, February 15.

Other local musicians also will play during this free event, with coffee, tea, and a full dessert bar being provided. All ages are invited to enjoy a relaxing evening at the Center at 21 Main Street, Belfast.

In addition to playing a variety of music on his viola, Peralta also will discuss how he began in music at the age of 14 in his native country as part of an internationally-recognized El Sistema (The System), founded by Jose Antonio Abreu, which has trained hundreds of thousands of children, a large percentage in poverty, to take lessons and excel in music. Children, youth and adults at the coffee house event will have an opportunity to try out some instruments.

Peralta rose through El Sistema, becoming a member of the orchestra in 2004. He has performed with it in some 40 international venues, including private receptions for the Queen of England and Prince (now King) Felipe VI of Spain, at the Latin Grammys, Carnegie Hall in New York City, prestigious international music festivals and many major U.S. and international cities.

The musician came to Allegany County as a music missionary last February at the invitation of Knights Creek Church and currently serves as its minister of music and outreach. He plays with fellow Venezuelan musicians, members of the Escriban family of Houghton, at the church's Sunday morning services, and also provides music during the church's Celebrate Recovery support ministry on Saturday nights and other church-related and community functions that exposes the public to music it might not otherwise come in contact with.

He and Daniel Escriban also provide free music lessons to children and adults weekly following the church's free Community Dinner after Sunday morning services.

The musicians currently instruct 11 children as part of the church's vision of developing a local or county-wide version of a children and youth choir and orchestra, much like a 900-member ministry in the jungles of Venezuela, founded by Daniel's wife, Raquel Acevedo Escriban, in which he and Peralta participated as instructors.

Further information about Lifeway and the coffee house is available on Facebook at Lifeway Youth Center of Belfast, NY, lifewayyouthcenter@gmail.com or (585) 365-2293, with additional information about Knights Creek Church and its music and other ministries at www.facebook.com/KnightsCreekChurch, bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503.

OPIOID OVERDOSES TO BE TREATED AS CRIME SCENES

BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr., together with Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn, Central Police Services (CPS) Commissioner James Janciewicz, and Daniel Rinaldo, from the New York New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), announced today a first-of-its-kind initiative which is being implemented across Erie County to enhance law enforcement’s response to opioid overdoses. The initiative calls for state and local law enforcement officers who respond to an overdose in Erie County to input certain information into their on-board computers and to follow certain protocols for the processing of overdose scenes. 

“While we may not be able to prosecute our way out of this epidemic, that does not mean that prosecution has no role in our fight” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “While prevention and treatment efforts are critical to success in driving down overdose death rates, prosecution also plays an important role. Treatment represents the appropriate way to deal with those addicted to these poisons.  Prosecution represents the appropriate way to deal with those drug dealers addicted to the profits generated by their spewing this poison into our community.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, the New York-New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Central Police Services, and the Erie County Chiefs Association, to implement these new protocols help to ensure that those who are selling these potentially deadly opioids receive justice and those who are addicted receive treatment. Under the initiative, when law enforcement officers arrive at what they believe to be an opioid overdose, certain information will be collected and imputed into a law enforcement database and standardized protocols regarding the processing of the overdose scene and the collection of evidence will be followed. In addition, the information will also be entered into ODMAP, a real time, national GPS mapping system which tracks overdoses, overdose deaths, and Narcan use nationwide.

U.S. Attorney Kennedy further stated, “By standardizing the way these overdose scenes are processed, we enhance our ability to prosecute those who peddle this poison.  At the same time, by simply tracking the location of non-fatal overdoses, we enhance the ability of treatment providers to reach those who are in the greatest need.  It is this simultaneous enhancement of both our law enforcement function—prosecuting drug dealers—and the treatment function—helping addicts—which constitutes a highly effective one, two punch in our effort to combat this deadly epidemic.”

“By establishing consistent protocols for all law enforcement, we will be able to preserve critical evidence in overdose death investigations in order to prosecute these opiate dealers,” said Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn. “I want to thank U.S. Attorney Kennedy for bringing our partners in law enforcement together on this initiative. By streamlining our efforts, we will be better equipped to identify the drug dealers, and hopefully bring an end to this deadly epidemic.”

“This initiative represents the perfect partnership between law enforcement and public health,” stated Daniel Rinaldo, Drug Intelligence Officer with the New York-New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA). “Working together to implement these protocols, gather the evidence, and interview witnesses will enable us to prepare the strongest case possible for prosecution.”

To date, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted 16 defendants for distributing heroin and/or fentanyl which caused the death of or seriously bodily injury to 23 victims. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office has also prosecuted one defendant for manslaughter in connection with an opioid related death.      

Officers Injured During Inmate Attacks at Elmira Correctional Facility

Elmira , NY – Three officers needed outside medical attention for injuries sustained when several inmates attacked officers outside of a facility classroom at Elmira Correctional Facility last week.

The initial incident occurred on Wednesday, January 30, at approximately 1:45 p.m.  An officer observed an inmate leave a classroom without permission.  He confronted him in the hallway outside of the class and the inmate became belligerent and spit on the officer.  He then punched the officer in the side of the face.  The officer backed away and administered OC Spray to the inmate, which had no initial effect.  A second officer arrived on the scene and used body holds to get the inmate to the ground and into mechanical restraints. 

As that incident unfolded, a second inmate became disruptive in the classroom.  He was removed from the class by another officer and ordered to the wall to be frisked.  The inmate came off the wall and elbowed the officer multiple times to the chest.  A brief struggle ensued until mechanical restraints were applied and the inmate became compliant. 

A third inmate struck another officer in the face before being brought under control.  A fourth charged at an officer outside of the class and was brought under control when OC Spray was applied.

Three officers were treated by medical staff at the facility and transferred to Arnot Ogden Medical Center.  Two officers were treated for multiple bruises and abrasions.  One officer was treated for exposure to blood. 

Four additional officers sustained minor injuries and stayed on duty.

The inmates were placed in a special housing unit pending disciplinary measures. 

“ Staff attacks continue to be one of the most troubling issues we deal with inside our correctional facilities.   With changes in the disciplinary system, there is no real deterrent for inmates not to brazenly attack staff.  In 2018 attacks on staff once again reached record levels.  Our members will continue to be put in harm’s way unless there are significant repercussions for inmates who continue these unprovoked attacks .” – Joe Miano , NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President.

Obituary: Ida M. Hess, 89, Independence

Ida M. Hess, 89, entered into the presence of Jesus on Tuesday (Feb. 5, 2019) at home, surrounded by family.

Mrs. Hess was born on Aug. 24, 1929 in Pequea Township, Pa.to Howard M. and Fannie (Martin) Eshleman. On Aug. 1, 1953, in New Danville, Pa., she married Lester H. Hess, who predeceased her on Oct. 4, 2014. Ida devoted her life to the care of her husband and family.

Ida is survived by three sons, Lester (Rachel) Hess, Jr. and Timothy (Rachel) Hess, both of Independence and Jay (Sandra) Hess of Andover; four daughters, Arlene (William) Eddy of Belmont, Kathy (Roy) Sommers and Lois (Eugene) King, both of Harrisonburg, Va. and Yvonne (Nathan) Reber of Independence; a brother, John (Jo) Eshleman of Willow Street, Pa.; three sisters-in-law, Arlene Eshleman and Verna Hess, both of Pa. and Joyce (Lee) Mummau of Ohio; 30 grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her husband of 61 years, she was predeceased by three brothers, Clayton (Kathryn) Eshleman, Chester Eshleman and Howard Eshleman; four sisters, Barbara (Jacob) Lefever, Mabel (Jacob) Harnish, Cora (Paul) Kilheffer and Ruth Eshleman; two brothers-in-law, Harold Hess and Benjamin Hess; two sisters-in-law, Elsie (Earl) Swartzentruber and Miriam Hess; a grandson, Kendall Hess and a grand-daughter-in-law, Sharla King.

Ida loved her family, church family and neighbors. In many ways, through her acts of kindness and hospitality, her neighbor was anyone with a need. She was very supportive of the mission and ministry of her husband. Where he went, she was glad to be by his side. She was a member and attended Phillips Creek Mennonite Church where her husband pastored for many years.

Between her and Lester, Ida was the humorous one. She enjoyed the reaction of telling a funny story. To her, laughter was truly good medicine. It was natural and first nature for Ida to overlook a weakness, be forbearing in a difficult situation or unconditionally accepting. She was always appreciative of the people around her and the circumstances she found herself in. In her later years, she enjoyed a good game of Scrabble or working a jigsaw puzzle with her children as they took over the role of caregiver.

Visitation will be held on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Gospel Fellowship Church, 4996 Hood Road in Belmont. The funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. also at the Gospel Fellowship Church. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Cemetery in Belmont.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ida’s name may be made to Phillips Creek Mennonite School, C/O Lester Hess, Jr., 2360 CR 22, Andover, NY 14806.        

​Arrangements are under the direction of the Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover.  

News Release : Corning Announces Quarterly Dividend Increase of 11%

Corning Incorporated’s (NYSE: GLW) Board of Directors today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20 per share, an 11% increase in the company’s quarterly common stock dividend. The 2019 first-quarter dividend is payable on March 29, 2019, to shareholders of record on February 28, 2019.
In October 2015, Corning’s management announced a Strategy and Capital Allocation Framework which outlines the company’s 2016-2019 leadership priorities. Since the Framework was announced, the company has returned $11.8 billion to shareholders through dividends, which have increased 67% and repurchasing approximately 36% of its outstanding shares and delivered key milestones across all five of its market-access platforms.
Wendell P. Weeks, chairman, chief executive officer, and president, said, “We are now into our fourth year of Corning’s Framework which outlines the company’s leadership priorities. We are nearing our goal to deliver more than $12.5 billion to shareholders through stock buybacks and increased dividends. Today marks the fourth consecutive year we have increased shareholder dividends.”

Obituary: Dorothy A. Smith, 90, Coudersport

Dorothy A. Smith “beloved wife, mother and aunt”

COUDERSPORT, Pa.- Dorothy A. Smith, 90, a longtime resident of Coudersport, passed away at the home of her nephew and his wife, John and Tammy Setzer of Coudersport, on Monday, February 4, 2019, after a long illness.

Born on January 22, 1929 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of John Joseph and Helen Lucille Butler Dubots.  On July 5, 1948 in St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport, she married Robert H. “Bob” Smith, who passed away on May 14, 2018.

Dorothy was a graduate of Coudersport High School.  She was employed as an executive assistant for 27 years by John Rigas and Adelphia Communications in Coudersport. Dorothy was a member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport, a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Doyle Court #932 in Coudersport, and a member of the Office Girls Club in Coudersport. She enjoyed sewing, ceramics, and gardening.  She and Bob loved their many dogs through the years and she loved Mack, who is her nephew and his wife’s dog. Surviving are several nieces, nephews and cousins, including a special nephew, John Setzer and his wife, Tammy, with whom Dorothy resided.

In addition to her parents and husband, Dorothy was predeceased by three children, Patricia Smith, Tommy Smith, and Cheryl Smith, who all sadly passed away from Cystic Fibrosis; a brother, John Dubots; two sisters, Kathryn Setzer and Joanne Dubots; and her best friend, Victoria “Vicki” Frederick.

Family and friends may call from 10am to 11am on Friday, February 8, 2019, at the gathering space of St. Eulalia Catholic Church.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the church at 11am with the Rev. James C. Campbell, pastor, as celebrant.  Burial will be in St. Eulalia Catholic Cemetery, Coudersport. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Eulalia Catholic Church, 6 Maple Street. Coudersport, PA 16915 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

 Dorothy’s family has entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, share a fond memory, or view a video tribute of Dorothy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.

Allegany County prosecutors, social services crack down on welfare abuse

Here is a synopsis of the following Welfare Fraud cases recently prosecuted by the Allegany County District Attorney's Office after investigations by the Allegany County Department of Social Services and the New York State Police:

1.)  People of the State of New York versus Robert E. Bowker, Jr., and Lori A. Bowker, both of 4421 West Sciota Street, Scio, New York, 14880.  Both were arrested on September 13, 2018.  Each of them were found guilty of Welfare Fraud in the Fifth Degree.  Both were sentenced to a Conditional Discharge and ordered to pay $1,950.00 in restitution to the Allegany County Department of Social Services based on their criminal conduct of providing false information on their applications to receive benefits from Allegany County.

2.)  1.)  People of the State of New York versus Ashley Coleman-Greiss, of 946 Harrigan Road, Whitesville, New York, 14897.  She was arrested on December 10, 2018.  She was found guilty of Welfare Fraud in the Fifth Degree.  She was sentenced to a Conditional Discharge and ordered to pay $3,500.00 in restitution to the Allegany County Department of Social Services based on her criminal conduct of providing false information on her application to receive benefits from Allegany County.

NY Counties Voice Concerns About NYS Marijuana Proposal

Information supplied by the NYS Association of Counties:

Last week, the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) hosted a panel on proposals to legalize adult use marijuana and expand the farming and development of cannabis for hemp and medical use in New York State. The Governor's proposal, if agreed upon by the State Legislature, will impact several areas overseen by counties: agriculture, economic development, land use planning, public health, public safety, traffic safety, mental health and substance abuse, agriculture, district attorney and law enforcement, jails and probation, and consumer protection. [Video links to the NYSAC panel are below.]

 

To educate county officials about this major policy change and the potential local impact, NYSAC has published an in-depth report, Making Marijuana Legal in NYS, available here.

 

County leaders are urging the state to provide counties with the resources needed for public education and technical assistance to manage the societal impact to public health, public safety, criminal justice, consumer protection, and economic development, among others. In addition to levying a sales tax on retail sales for community impact and support, counties support a general revenue sharing formula similar to casino funding distribution. 

 

Proposed Legislation and County Impact 

The Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act, included in the FY 2020 Executive Budget, would create and amend existing laws to legalize adult-use cannabis; consolidate governance of all forms of cannabis; and create a regulatory structure to oversee the licensure, cultivation, production, distribution, sale and taxation of cannabis within New York State. The legislation will also address the damaging consequences of marijuana criminalization. This will include investing in the communities hit hardest by the War on Drugs.

Under the proposed legislation, counties would have the home rule authority to opt out of community sale of adult-use cannabis with the passage of a local law or resolution.

 

"There are many facets of the Governor's plan, and county officials are exploring the entire proposal. There is industrial hemp, CBD oils for therapeutic applications, and the adult use of marijuana. Our current public health efforts combating tobacco use will double when we are talking about cannabis, including educational campaigns and cessation programs," said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario.

 

In 2018, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) issued a report recommending the State legalize non-medical use of marijuana. Ten states-Alaska, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington-and Washington DC have already legalized cannabis.

 

The State report acknowledges the difficulties that legalization is anticipated to present for local law enforcement. This legislation will also have other social and practical impacts that will place new responsibilities and service requirements on many county departments, including public health, mental health, substance abuse, consumer protection, economic development, and others.

Resources on the County Impact of Marijuana Legalization: 

 

Making Marijuana Legal in NYS, A NYSAC Report

 

Cannabis panel discussion at the NYSAC Legislative Conference - video links:

• Christine De La Rosa of The People's Dispensary
• Cheryl Sbarra of the Massachusetts Association of Health Boards
• Benjamin Banks-Dobson of Hudson Hemp

NYSAC Hosts Marijuana Panel for County Delegates - Radio News Story on WAMC

Allegany County Solid Waste asking for user help

In an effort to maintain the highest quality of recyclable materials, Allegany County, and the Solid Waste staff, would like to ask Transfer Station customers to close all paper and cardboard recycling containers after use during inclement weather. For more information on recycling and solid waste in Allegany County, please visit us at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1964199576962009/.

New protocols coming for police and opioid overdoses

BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. will hold a news conference at 2:30 p.m. today to discuss new protocols for law enforcement officers who respond to the scene of a fatal or non-fatal opioid overdose. These locations will now be treated as the scene of homicide or other violent crime. Kennedy will be joined by Erie County District Attorney John Flynn, Daniel Rinaldo with New York-New Jersey HIDTA, and the Cheektowaga Police Department.  

The press conference will be held at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, 138 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14202.

Lockport: Man throws coffee at fire police during traffic detour

PRESS RELEASE

On Tuesday, Lockport-based state police arrested Luis E. Molina-Roman, 31 of Lockport, NY for Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd and Harassment 2nd. On February 4, 2019, Troopers were investigating a collision on Old Beattie Road in Lockport.  After the collision investigation, Troopers were requested to respond to the Rapids Fire Hall for a complaint of a volunteer Fire Police who was directing traffic on Old Beattie Road near Robinson Road due to the State Police collision investigation.  The 68-year-old female victim was directing traffic and advising a vehicle operator that they could not travel down Old Beattie Road.  The passenger, Molina-Roman allegedly became upset and used vulgarity and threw hot coffee at the victim.  No injuries reported.  Troopers said Molina-Roman was cooperative during arrest and apologetic. Molina-Roman was processed at SP Lockport and issued appearance tickets returnable to the town of Lockport Court later this month.

Math & Movement - TONIGHT at Andover Central School

Families in the Andover School District will be participating tonight in a unique family event to bring movement and fun to learning math and reading. The nationally acclaimed Math & Movement™ program is a kinesthetic, multi-sensory approach to teaching math and reading that incorporates physical activity with visual stimuli created to make learning fun, active, and memorable.

The program utilizes specially designed floor mats and banners that enable students to hop, walk, crawl, or dance their way to mastering math and reading concepts. During the Family Fun Night, parents and children will move from station to station, learning the math activities while completing a Math & Movement activity guide. Older students, who will man the stations, will improve their own math skills through helping younger students. Eight out of ten children are kinesthetic learners (learn best through movement.) The program harnesses children’s natural kinesthetic learning style to foster positive feelings towards learning. The program is based on research that shows that moving during learning facilitates muscle memory, an important factor with younger children whose abstract thinking skills are not fully developed. Studies show this type of activity allows teachers and students to feel more energized, focused, and prepared to learn. At a time when there are 12 million obese children, physical fitness has become a matter of national urgency. As U.S. Senator Chris Dobb has said, “All of us—parents, schools, government, employers—need to see the rising childhood obesity rates for what they are: a medical emergency.” Math & Movement promotes physical activity while simultaneously increasing learning. The end result: physically fit children and increased test scores.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Tuesday February 5, 2019

Wellsville Police arrested Kent A. Miller, age 35 of Westfield, PA, charging him with AUO 3rd (Aggravated Unlicensed Operation) and Uninspected Motor Vehicle.  The charges stem from a traffic stop on Scott Avenue in the Village of Wellsville.  Miller was issued traffic citations and released.  Miller is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on February 26th at 4:30 p.m.

Wellsville Police arrested James R. Miller, age 32 of Wellsville, charging him with Issuing a Bad Check.  The charge stems from a complaint made by the Still Water Pizza & Grill in Wellsville.  Miller was processed, issued an appearance ticket and released.  Miller is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court on February 26th at 4:30 p.m.

Partial Obituary: John Orlando “Jack” McCumber, 80, of Alma

ALMA, N.Y.- John Orlando “Jack” McCumber, 80, of Alma, passed away in his home with his wife by his side on Monday, February 4, 2019, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

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.

Governor Wolf’s Budget Goal: Create ‘Strongest Workforce in the Nation’

PRESS RELEASE

With the commonwealth on a comeback, Governor Tom Wolf Tuesday outlined in his 2019-20 budget address a bold plan to move the commonwealth forward by building the strongest workforce in the nation that drives the strongest economy. With a comprehensive package of programs and an overhaul of policies, the Statewide Workforce, Education, and Accountability Program will provide opportunities for Pennsylvanians from birth to retirement.
“Today, I present a comprehensive plan to help grow our economy by continuing to invest in our workforce,” said Governor Wolf. “This plan calls on contributions from the business community, labor unions, educators, research institutions, students, parents, and adult workers. And it increases opportunity for every Pennsylvanian at every stage of life – from birth to retirement.
“The people of our commonwealth have proven that, despite the challenges we face, Pennsylvania remains a place worthy of its history – a place where people can find good work, strong communities, and opportunity for their kids. And, here in Harrisburg, we’ve proven that despite our differences, we remain capable of doing what Washington just cannot seem able to do: tackle big challenges, put aside petty partisanship, and serve the public interest.”
A core component of the governor’s plan is the Keystone Economic Development and Workforce Command Center, which brings together agency heads and public and private sector experts in a unique approach to finding solutions that connect skilled workers with good jobs that employers need today and in the future.
The governor’s budget expands access to early childhood education, increases investments in schools, and partners with the private sector to build on the PAsmart initiative, launched last year as a groundbreaking approach to workforce development.
Keystone Economic Development and Workforce Command Center
Tackling the skills gap and creating a well-trained workforce requires government, schools and industry to work together. PAsmart was the first step, but Governor Wolf wants bolder action. Soon the governor will sign an executive order creating the Keystone Economic Development and Workforce Command Center. The departments of Community and Economic Development, Labor & Industry, State and others will partner with external leaders to find solutions that will strengthen our workforce.
“Across the commonwealth, we have workers aging out of our workforce, and too often the next generation of worker is not there or doesn’t have the skills to replace them,” said Governor Wolf. “If we can’t strengthen our workforce, we will fall behind. And we cannot let our government’s response to this problem be handcuffed by stale habit. The time is now for this comprehensive plan for preparing Pennsylvanians to compete and win in our rapidly changing economy.”
Early Childhood Development and Parent Support
Parents cannot work if they lack food, housing or childcare. To break the cycle of poverty, the governor’s budget invests in early childhood education and removes barriers for low-income parents. The proposal provides $5 million to expand home-visiting programs for pregnant women and at-risk infants and toddlers, $15 million in federal funds to reduce waiting lists for high-quality childcare, and $5 million for wrap-around services so parents can attend college or other training to get skills for family-sustaining jobs.
Continuing Investments in Education and Career Training
The governor’s budget ensures that every student is ready for a career by continuing investments to improve public schools along with more funding for early childhood programs, k-through-12, and higher education. The budget provides increases of $200 million for basic education, $50 million for pre-k and Head Start, $50 million for special education, $7 million for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, and $8 million in one-time grants for community college students or graduates who are working in Pennsylvania.
PAsmart is an innovative and pioneering approach to connecting Pennsylvanians with education and training opportunities, apprenticeships, and STEM careers and the governor’s budget expands this initiative with an additional $4 million to help Pennsylvania manufacturers train workers and $6 million to expand career and technical education for adults.
Governor Wolf is also proposing to save nearly $120 million over the next two years by raising Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $12 an hour on July 1, 2019. The boost in pay for one million workers would enable tens of thousands of people to work their way off of public assistance, reducing the burden on taxpayers who are subsidizing low wages.
To prevent students from falling behind, the governor’s plan lowers the age when students must start attending school from 8 to 6 and increases the dropout age from 17 to 18. The administration will also study the benefits of providing free full day kindergarten to all children starting at age 5.
The transcript of the budget address as prepared is available here.
Pennsylvanians can find out more about Governor Wolf’s budget at budget.pa.gov.

Statement from Rep. Tom Reed on President Trump's State of the Union Address

Statement from Rep. Tom Reed on President Trump's State of the Union Address

With a soaring economy and a restored leadership around the globe, President Trump highlighted the once in a generation opportunity our country holds to work together to pass laws that help people. Many of the priorities the President laid out, such as rebuilding our infrastructure, lowering the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs, and ensuring our country embraces a safe, fair and legal immigration system, are issues the Problem Solvers Caucus made a top priority as well this Congress, and we look forward to working together. Now extremists on both sides of the aisle have a choice to make: Will they adopt a willingness to compromise and ensure a legacy of greatness for our children and grandchildren, or instead, choose to play ‘gotcha politics,’ and guarantee the American people lose out on future opportunities? We sincerely hope they choose to put the American people first.

Fillmore resident arrested on Wyoming County warrant

On January 31^st, Kory J. Lanni, 24 of Fillmore, was arrested following a traffic stop in the Village of Silver Springs.

 Lanni was stopped by Sheriff’s Deputies following a registration check of Lanni’s vehicle, showing an active Bench Warrant out of the Village of Perry. Lanni was wanted for failing to appear to Village Court following a Perry Police AUO arrest. Lanni was taken into custody and turned over to the Village of Perry Police Department for arraignment.

Winter Weather Advisory for Allegany County - Feb.6

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
144 PM EST Tue Feb 5 2019

Wyoming-Livingston-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Allegany-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Warsaw, Geneseo, Jamestown, Olean,
Wellsville, Orchard Park, and Springville
144 PM EST Tue Feb 5 2019

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM TO 4 PM EST
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Freezing rain expected. Total ice accumulations of a few hundredths of an inch to around a tenth of an inch expected.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Livingston, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus,
  Allegany, and Southern Erie counties.

* WHEN...From 7 AM to 4 PM EST Wednesday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The hazardous conditions could impact later
portions of the morning commute.

Wellsville Lions Club continues to give to the comunity

The Wellsville Lions Club is dedicated to serve the greater Wellsville Community in keeping with our motto: “We Serve.”  One of the ways we do this is through donations in response to requests.  The following is a summary of the donations given out during the month of January 2019 by the various Lions Club committees.

-$300 donation to Wellsville High School Christmas Give-Away from the Youth Activities committee.

-$300 donation to the Allegany County SPCA to their building fund from the Civic Improvement committee.

-$325 donation to the Wellsville American Legion for their Main Street banner program from the Civic Improvement committee.

-$200 donation to Accord Community Action Angels 2019 from the Civic Improvement committee.

-$200 donation to Hearts for ALS NY from the Health & Welfare committee.

-$200 donation to the American Red Cross from the Health & Welfare committee.

-$400 donation to assist a family with medical issues from the Health &Welfare committee.

-$135 donation to Wellsville Little League for team sponsorship from the Youth Activities committee.

-$1500 payment of three $500 scholarships for Wellsville students from the Scholarship committee.

-$300 donation to the Friends of the David A. Howe Library from the Civic Improvement committee.

The Wellsville Lions Club is able to provide these donations by virtue of its two major fund raising activities.  The first is the annual Lions show this February 22 and 23 and the second is the extremely popular Trout Derby April 27 - 28.  Anyone interested in becoming a part of this civic oriented organization and serving on one of our committees should contact Clint Gilkey at 585-593-5976 or gilkch@verizon.net. If anybody is in need of our services or financial help, please contact any Lions Club member or visit us on Facebook.