ACDOH needs your help! Rabies news release

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Infected mammals can transmit rabies virus to humans and other mammals. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Rabies is most often seen among wild animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes, but any mammal can be infected with rabies. Pets and livestock can get rabies if they are not vaccinated to protect them against infection. Bats, along with other mammals such as raccoons, fox and skunks, can carry and transmit the rabies virus. Although people usually know when a bat has bitten them, bats have small teeth that may not leave marks on the skin.

 

Exposure to rabies can be prevented

·       Do not approach, handle, or feed wild or stray animals.

·       Have your dogs, cats, and ferrets vaccinated against rabies and keep the vaccinations up-to-date.

·       Do not leave pets outside unattended or allow them to roam free.

·       Cover garbage cans tightly and do not leave pet food outside; this may attract wild and stray animals.

·       Teach children to stay away from wild animals or animals that they do not know.

·       Prevent bats from entering your home by using window screens and chimney caps and by closing any openings greater than ¼ inch by ½ inch. Bats found in the home should be safely collected, if possible, and tested for rabies.

·       Wear gloves when handling an animal if it has been in a fight with another animal. Keep it away from people and other animals and call your veterinarian or local health department to report the animal exposure.

 

What to do when your pet bites someone

·       Contact the Allegany County Department of Health.

·       The Allegany County Department of Health will require monitoring of the pet for 10 days even if it is currently vaccinated.

·       Report promptly any illness or unusual behavior of your pet to your veterinarian.

What to do when your pet is bitten by another animal

·       Consult your veterinarian immediately, they will examine your pet and assess your pet’s health and vaccination needs.

·       Contact the Allegany County Department of Health if your pet was bitten by a stray or wild animal.

·       If your pet is currently vaccinated and possibly exposed to rabies, contact the Allegany County Department of Health right away at (585)268-9250. You may wish to contact your veterinarian.

·       If a rabies-suspect or confirmed rabid animal bites your pet and your pet is not currently vaccinated, the only options are euthanasia (to prevent the development of rabies and possible exposure of the virus to humans and other animals) or a strict 6-month quarantine (to see if your pet will develop rabies from this potential exposure).

What to do if you are bitten by an animal

·       If it is a wild animal, try to trap it if you can do so safely. If the animal must be killed, try not to damage the head.

·       If it is an owned animal, get the animal owner’s name, address, and telephone number.

·       Immediately wash the wound well with soap and water, and if available hydrogen peroxide.

·       Get prompt medical attention.

·       Immediately report the exposure to the Allegany County Department of Health.

·       If you are sleeping and wake up to find a bat in your room, attempt to safely catch the bat for rabies testing and contact the Allegany County Department of Health.

o   To view a video on how to properly catch a bat, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YhnV5WJQBA uploaded by the New York State Department of Health.

·       Contact the Allegany County Department of Health if you suspect a bat was present and exposure cannot be reasonably ruled out (e.g., a sleeping person awakens to find a bat in the room, or an adult sees a bat in the room with a previously unattended child or mentally disabled or intoxicated person).

 

To find information on rabies on the web go to https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/rabies/fact_sheet.htm

A FREE rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets will be held on April 27, 2019 from 9am to Noon at the Friendship Fire Department. Please contact the Allegany County Department of Health to pre-register your animals at 585-268-9250.

Community Easter Egg Hunt at David A. Howe Library - April 13

Obituary: James W. “Jimmy” Friend, 47, of Coudersport

James W. Friend “beloved husband, loved father, awesome grandfather”

COUDERSPORT, Pa.- James W. “Jimmy” Friend, 47, of Coudersport, passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2019, at UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a long illness.

Born on January 30, 1972 in Claxton, Georgia, he was a son of Henry P. and Jacqueline “Jackie” Martin Friend.  On June 6, 2013 in Coudersport, he married Tamela V. “Tammy” Hults, who survives.

He attended Reidsville High School in Reidsville, Georgia.

Jimmy was employed as a chef.  He enjoyed fishing.  He was a practical joker and loved to make everyone laugh.  His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren.

Surviving besides his wife are eleven children, Phillip M. Friend of Roulette, Alexandria E. Earle, James W. Friend, Jr., Thomas M. Friend, all of Coudersport, Jonathan A. Friend, serving with the U.S. Marines in North Carolina, Allen C. Friend of Kerrville, Texas, Sara Adams of Illinois, Katie Lowe of Springfield, Ohio, and Mickey J. Hults-Lowe, Jasmine L. Lowe, and Chandler S. Hults-Lowe, all of Coudersport; eleven grandchildren; a brother, Paul (Joan) Friend of Salem, Indiana; four sisters, Lynette (Jerry) Turner of Brunswick, Georgia, Susie (Larry) Webb of Vidalia, Georgia, Penny (Joe) Stewart of Salem, Indiana, and Emily (Ceasar) Hernandez of Reidsville, Georgia; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jimmy was predeceased by a brother, Dwayne Friend; and a nephew, Larry Webb, Jr.

Family and friends are invited to call from 12 noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2019, at Christ Episcopal Church, Coudersport, where a celebration of Jimmy’s life will follow at 3 p.m., with Mother Janis Yskamp, rector, and Pastor Pete Tremblay of the God’s Country Ministries, Coudersport, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please visit Tammy’s Friends Facebook page for the link to the Go Fund Me page to assist with expenses.

Jimmy’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 or share a fond memory of Jimmy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.

Livingston County Sheriff's Blotter

NEWS RELEASE

Latoya A. Zeh, 30, Wellsville, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree and Inadequate/No Exhaust on March 22, and was issued an appearance ticket to answer charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Antonio B. Deadmon, 24, Dallas, TX, was charged March 21, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2^nd Degree and Failure to Keep Right.  Deadmon was released on an appearance ticket to address charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Ashley E. Emerson, 31, Lakeville, NY, was cited for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree on March 24, and was issued an appearance ticket to address charges in Livonia Town Court on a later date. 

Richard J. Spencer, 38, Ivan O. Wheeler, 31 and Laura Lyn M. Wheeler, 29, all residing in Dansville, NY, were charged March 24, with Failure to Provide Sustenance to Animals and were released on appearance tickets to reply to charges in West Sparta Town Court on a later date. 

Melinda E. Torres, 31, Avon, NY, was arrested and charged with Petit Larceny on March 21.  Following LC-CAP arraignment, Torres was ordered held in the Livingston County Jail on $250 cash bail.  Torres will answer charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Allison M. Pukas, 21, York, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree and Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle on March 15.  Pukas was released on an appearance ticket to address charges in Geneseo Village Court on a later date. 

Pablo A. Hernandez-Hernandez, 32, Rochester, NY, was charged March 25, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree and Operating a Motor Vehicle without an Inspection Certificate.  Hernandez-Hernandez was issued an appearance ticket to satisfy charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Hans P. Sieber, 74, Lima, NY, was arrested and charged with Petit Larceny on March 20.  Sieber was released on an appearance ticket to answer charges in Lima Town Court on a later date. 

Sherri L. Buys, 52, Livonia, NY, was arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Blood Alcohol Content .08% or Greater and Failure to Keep Right on March 22.  Buys will reply to charges in Livonia Town Court on a later date. 

Ronald G. Warner, 36, Geneseo, NY, was charged March 25, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree, Unlicensed Operator, Speeding and Inadequate/No Exhaust.  Warner was released on an appearance ticket to address charges in Geneseo Town Court on a later date. 

Donald L. Wagar, 76, Mt. Morris, NY, was arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Failure to Keep Right on March 26.  Wagar was released on his own recognizance to reply to charges in West Sparta Town Court on a later date. 

Shane D. Quick, 34, Wayland, NY, was arrested March 26, charged with two counts of Criminal Contempt 1^st Degree.  Following LC-CAP arraignment, Quick was remanded to the custody of the Sheriff on $2,000 cash bail/$4,000 property bond.  Quick will address charges in Conesus Town Court on a later date. 

Bernard T. Moore, 25, Rochester, NY, was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marihuana and Unlicensed Operator on March 23, and was issued an appearance ticket to satisfy charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Tricia L. Stoller, 34, Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged with Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia 2^nd Degree on March 13, and was released on her own recognizance to satisfy charges in Lima Village Court on a later date. 

Allen J. Polvino, 70, Rochester, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2^nd Degree, Unlicensed Operator, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Improper Plates and a License Plate Display Violation on March 13.  Polvino was released on an appearance ticket to resolve charges in Lima Town Court on a later date.

John B. Hilligus, 38, Dansville, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2^nd Degree and Circumventing an Ignition Interlock Device on March 26.  Hilligus was released with an appearance ticket to satisfy charges in Sparta Town Court on a later date. 

Michael C. Chase, Jr., 26, Springwater, NY, was cited for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2^nd Degree on March 26, and will answer charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

Luis M. Perez, 61, Geneseo, NY, was charged March 27, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree, Unlicensed Operator and Speeding.  Perez was issued an appearance ticket to address charges in Avon Town Court on a later date. 

David Urena, 57,  Orchard Park, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2^nd Degree on March 13, and was issued an appearance ticket to answer charged in Groveland Town Court on a later date.

New state budget will block the release of mug shots

The 2019-2020 New York State budget was finalized Monday. The spending plan includes plenty of new policies, to include ending the practice of publically releasing an arrest mugshot. The budget contains legislation amending the state Freedom of Information Law to shield booking photographs from public access (there are limited exceptions, for example a manhunt). Police booking information, which had also been on the chopping block, will continue to remain public. Gov. Cuomo even wanted to block law enforcement from releasing criminal charges for a defendant. Senate and Assembly leaders initially agreed but changed their minds after complaints by civil liberties advocates and media organizations.

Senator O'Mara calls new state budget bad news for taxpayers

Albany, N.Y., April 1—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) today said that the 2019-2020 state budget approved by Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Legislature’s Democratic majorities welcomes back “a tax-and-spend approach to government that’s bad news for taxpayers, job creators, and workers.”

Since the beginning of the year, O’Mara has been calling for state leaders to make tax relief a priority in the new state budget. Instead, he said the budget adopted relies on more than $1 billion in new taxes and fees to support significant new short- and long-term state spending.  The new taxes will include a new sales tax on internet purchases that will affect all consumers.

O’Mara said that the budget also sets in motion new state spending commitments that will become increasingly expensive, including a system of public campaign financing, electoral reforms like early voting, tuition assistance for illegal immigrants, and others.

And while O’Mara has long supported making the state’s two-percent local property tax cap permanent, which the new budget does, he said that New York continues to ignore the urgent need to roll back unfunded state mandates in order to give the cap any hope of ever producing property tax cuts for local taxpayers.

“Tax-and-spend government has been a disaster for New York State in the past and it’s about to make a mess of things again. We needed to stop taxing, spending, regulating, and mandating New Yorkers to death.  Yet here we go again with a tax-and-spend approach to government that’s bad news for taxpayers, job creators, and workers, especially upstate,” said O’Mara, noting that the last time state government fell under one-party, Democratic control for two years beginning in 2009, taxes and fees were increased by $14 billion to support upwards of $14 billion in new state spending.

Man burned in Birdsall structure fire

Several fire departments were pressed into service shortly after 10 a.m. today for a structure fire near 9189 County Road 15B in Birdsall. Radio reports indicated an elderly man sustained facial and head burns and possibly smoke inhalation. He was transported to Jones Memorial in Wellsville where a Mercy Flight crew was on standby. He was later flown to Strong Memorial in Rochester. Attacking the flames were fire crews from Birdsall, Canaseraga, Short Tract, Angelica, Belfast and FAST Team 1. Multiple ambulances were also brought in. The fire was declared under control at 11:27 a.m. and out at 11:39 a.m. Some fire units were clearing the scene at noon. Fire investigators were brought in to determine the cause.

Southern Tier Congressman: Give federal law enforcement $$ to stop Fentanyl trafficking

L-R: Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol; Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente, Jr.;  Congressman Anthony Brindisi; Oneida County Assistant District Attorney Grant Garramone; Oneida County Undersheriff Joseph Lisi

In an effort to stop a recent rise in drug overdoses, Congressman Anthony Brindisi says he is urging Congressional budget negotiators to fully fund efforts to stop the shipment of fentanyl and other deadly opioids into the United States.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar recently declared a State of Emergency in Broome County after six overdose deaths over a ten day period. Local first responders in Oneida County also reported a surge in opioid overdoses, with 25 reported, including five deaths, by last Friday.

“Opioid addiction is tearing families apart in upstate New York and across the country, and we need to do more to stop the trafficking of these deadly drugs.  I’ve asked Congressional budget negotiators to ensure the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has the funding it needs to stop these deadly drugs from entering the country,” said Congressman Brindisi.

“We are currently facing a deadly fentanyl emergency in Broome County and we need to get this out of our community. Any resources we can get to help make that happen are crucial at the local, state, and federal level. Everyone needs to work together to keep this deadly drug out of our neighborhoods and save lives,” said Broome County Executive Jason Garnar.

Last year, as a member of the New York State Assembly, Brindisi wrote to U.S. trade representatives, demanding that they get Chinese officials to do more to stop the production of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.  Last December, a new agreement was reached between U.S. and Chinese trade negotiators to cut down on fentanyl trafficking into the U.S.

“It is good to see more cooperation from Chinese authorities to control fentanyl production, but we also need to ensure Customs and Border Patrol agents have the tools they need to stem the flow of fentanyl across our country’s border,” said Congressman Brindisi.

While data for 2018 is not yet complete, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports more than 70,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2017. Of the 70,000 overdose deaths, more than 47,000 have been connected to fentanyl or other opioids.

 Brindisi joined Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Ann McLane Kuster (D-NH), and other House members in a letter to House appropriators requesting federal budget negotiators fully fund the INTERDICT Act in the 2020 Fiscal Year appropriations process.

The INTERDICT Act was signed into law last year and authorizes Congress to spend $9 million to provide CBP with the latest in technology, as well as personnel and scientists, available during all operational hours, to prevent, detect, and interdict fentanyl.

PA: Bill to Exempt Milk Trucks from Winter Weather Travel Bans Subject of Upcoming Hearing

HARRISBURG – Recognizing the negative impact of weather-related commercial vehicle travel bans on Pennsylvania dairy farmers, House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee Chairman Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) is sponsoring legislation to exempt milk trucks from any future travel bans.
 
House Bill 915 will be the subject of an informational meeting of the committee in April.
 
Causer introduced his bill in response to the Wolf administration issuing a disaster emergency declaration this winter in which commercial vehicles were banned three times from some portions or all of the state’s interstate highways in anticipation of snow or ice accumulations.
 
“The problem with that policy is, dairy cows continue to produce milk no matter what the weather,” Causer said. “Without any way to get their milk picked up and delivered to market, farmers may have no choice but to dump it, and that is the last thing our struggling dairy producers need.
 
“While there are other perishable products that enter commerce via travel on our highways, milk is the only product where the cows keep giving it, the schedule for their milking simply cannot be adjusted, and there isn’t any spare capacity in the bulk tank,” he added.
 
Causer acknowledged the importance of public safety when dealing with winter storms but says the administration needs to recognize the unique nature of milk production and the impact on Pennsylvania dairy farmers.
 
The committee meeting will feature presentations by administration officials as well as other stakeholders and will be held on Wednesday, April 10, in Room 60 East Wing of the state Capitol. Barring technical difficulties, it will be streamed live at www.RepCauser.com starting at 9 a.m.

Allegany County DPW Planned Closure of CR 32 in the Town of Almond

From: Justin D Henry - Superintendent Date: April 1st, 2019


Re: Closure of County Route # 32 (North Almond Valley) in the Town of Almond.


Please be advised that on Wednesday April 3rd at 7:00 a.m., County Route # 32 (North Almond Valley) in the Town of Almond, approximately 1/4 mile East of the Bush Road intersection, will be closed for the day to replace a culvert pipe and repair the road. There will not be an on-site detour to accommodate traffic and motorists are urged to seek alternate routes. Thank you for your cooperation.

Jones Memorial: Bizzy Perrin certified Pharmacy Tech

WELLSVILLE, NY – Jones Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce that Pharmacy Tech Elizabeth Perrin has earned a two-year certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, a national certification program. In order to achieve this certification, Bizzy had to prepare for and successfully complete a 90-question exam.  Bizzy earned her certification in Sterile IV Compounding in August 2018.

As a pharmacy tech, Ms. Perrin’s responsibilities include filling daily medication requests for patients, internal hospital departments, and the Jones Memorial Medical Practices. She also processes billing for the offsite clinics and maintains and orders medications for the pharmacy inventory. Her certifications and experience make her an invaluable part of the pharmacy team. “Certified pharmacy techs bring an increased level of patient safety and a higher standard of care,” said Jacob Milliron, Pharmacy Director at Jones Memorial. “Bizzy is a valuable member of the pharmacy staff and we are proud of her continued commitment to our patients.”

Bizzy has been working in the pharmacy at JMH since August 2018, having started as a Rehab Tech in the rehabilitation department. Bizzy lives in Wellsville.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Saturday March 30, 2019

Wellsville Police arrested John H. Finch Jr., age 28 of Wellsville, charging him with Harassment 2nd.  The charge stems from an incident that took place on South Brooklyn Avenue on March 15th.  Finch was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice O’Connor.  Finch was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

Wellsville Police arrested Gary S. Hirt, age 51 of Wellsville, charging him with Harassment 2nd.  The charges stems from an incident that took place on Rauber Street on March 29th.  Hirt was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice O’Connor.  Hirt was released and is due back in Wellsville Village Court on April 16th at 4:30 p.m.

Date: Friday March 29, 2019

Wellsville Police arrested Gregory M. Outman, age 41 of Wellsville, charging him with Issuing a Bad Check.  The charge stems from a complaint made by the Giant Food Mart in Wellsville.  Outman was processed and arraigned before Wellsville Village Justice O’Connor.  Outman paid restitution in full and was released.

Bolivar-Richburg School Board agenda for April 2, 2019

 

 

BOLIVAR-RICHBURG CENTRAL SCHOOL

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING

AGENDA

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

7:00 PM – Regular Meeting – Conference Room 113

 

            I.    Call to Order

     II.    Pledge of Allegiance

            III.    President’s Report

IV.   Superintendent’s Report

V.    Public Participation 

      VI.    Report:  2019-2020 Budget Presentation by Jenny Bilotta 

     VII.   Minutes of the March 19, 2019 Board of Education Meeting

Motion_____

2^nd________

1. Consensus Items

The following items are grouped as consensus items that may be addressed in one motion.  Board members with questions, comments or concerns may opt to delete any item from the listing and address the issue separately. 

1.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to appoint the following election inspectors and chairperson for the upcoming Annual School District Budget vote and board elections to be held on  May 21, 2019 from 12 noon to 8 p.m.

 

Cheryl Sharp  

Grace McCrea

Diane Little

Melanie Johnston

Connie Emery 

2.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to increase the support of the Bolivar Free Library, Bolivar, New York, a free association library, by $4,500.00 during the 2019-2020 school fiscal year, and the Bolivar-Richburg Central School District is authorized to levy and collect taxes in said School District of payment thereof.  This will make a total of $40,000.00 toward the support of the Bolivar Free Library.

3.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to increase the support of the Colonial Library, Richburg, New York, a free association library, by $3,000.00 during the 2019-2020 school fiscal year, and the Bolivar-Richburg Central School District is authorized to levy and collect taxes in said School District of payment thereof.  This will make a total of $40,835.00 toward the support of the Colonial Library. 

4.      A motion is needed upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to increase the support of the Genesee Library, Little Genesee, New York, a free association library, by $5,468.75 during the 2019-2020 school fiscal year, and the Bolivar-Richburg Central School District is authorized to levy and collect taxes in said School District of payment thereof.  This will make a total of $27,318.75 toward the support of the Genesee Library. 

5.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to approve the CSE recommendations.

                                                                                                                        Motion_____

                                                                                                                        2^nd________

B.     Items Pulled from Consensus 

C.     Non-Consensus Items

6.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, that Daniel Davison, who is currently provisionally appointed in the position of Director of Educational Technology and Information Systems, is hereby reappointed for a probationary period to commence April 3, 2019 and to end December 31, 2019.

Motion_____

2^nd________

7.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to accept Ane Perez Herrero of Spain as a foreign exchange student for the 2019-2020 school year.

Motion_____

2^nd________

8.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to approve George Kinnicutt as a volunteer assistant track coach for the 2019 season.

Motion_____

2^nd________ 

9.      A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to authorize the Superintendent of Schools to sign the agreement with the Village of Bolivar for School Resource Officer (SRO) services for the  2019-2020 school year.

                                                                                                Motion_____

                                                                                                2^nd________

 

10.  A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to grant Stephanie Pierce’s request to extend her medical leave through

March 29, 2019.

                                                                                                Motion_____

                                                                                                2^nd________

 

11.  A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to accept a donation of a telescope from Alfred State College.

Motion_____

2^nd________

12.  A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to grant Susan Karnuth’s request for intermittent unpaid leave under the Family Medical Leave Act from March 25, 2019 through June 30, 2019. 

Motion_____

2^nd________

 

13.  A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to grant Jennifer Berg’s request for unpaid leave for March 26 & 28, 2019. 

Motion_____

2^nd________ 

14.  A motion is needed, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, to declare two ping pong tables as surplus.

Motion_____

2^nd________

D.    New Business 

5. Items of Information 

1.      Warrant Summary 

6. Adjournment

A motion is needed to adjourn the meeting at ____ PM, there being no further business.

                                                                                                            Motion_____

                                                                                                            2^nd________

 

 

Local schools compete in Science and Technology Fair at Alfred State College

Pictured are the students who were awarded for their projects at Alfred State’s 20th annual Regional Science and Technology Fair. In the front row, from left to right, are Lemuel Fiegle, Christy Childs, Gail Patton, Nicholas Gray, and Aurelia Hoover. In the back row, from left to right, are Matthew Robinson, Catherine Pryzbyla, Laura Wilhelm, Shayla Wilhelm, and Nathan Armstrong. Not Pictured are Clayton Cheney and McKenzie Calderwood.

More than 100 outstanding scientific projects by students from 13 area school districts were featured in Alfred State’s 20th annual Regional Science and Technology Fair.
Participating districts included Addison, Alfred-Almond, Archbishop Walsh STCS, Bolivar-Richburg, Cassadaga Valley, Friendship, Hinsdale, Hornell, Houghton Academy, Lima Christian School, Portville, Prattsburgh, and St. Ann’s Academy.
A total of 180 students presented 158 science and technology projects to the judges for a chance at a share of the $1,590 in prize money. Participants were divided into three divisions: senior (grades 10-12), junior (grades seven through nine), and novice (grades four through six).
Winners in the senior division included first-place winner ($250) Laura Wilhelm from Portville with “Liquid Ice Melt for the Common Consumer,” second-place winner ($150) Gail Patton from Hinsdale with “What’s in a Face?,” and third-place winner ($100) Nathan Armstrong from Hinsdale with “It’s Time to Strike.”
Winners in the junior division included first-place winner ($250) Catherine Pryzbyla from Archbishop Walsh with “Self Control: The Marshmallow Test,” second-place winner ($150) Christy Childs from Hinsdale with “Preserving?,” and third-place winner ($100) Lemuel Fiegl from Lima Christian School with “Hacking the Air Gap.”
Winners in the novice division included first-place winner ($50) Nicholas Gray from St. Ann’s Academy with “Slippery Slopes – Investigating the Angle of Repose and its Impact on Slope Stability,” second-place winner ($25) McKenzie Calderwood from Prattsburgh with “Power of Precipitation,” and third-place winner ($15) Clayton Cheney from Prattsburgh with “Tap, Sap, Boil.”
The grand prize ($500) went to Shayla Wilhelm from Portville with “Aluminum SiO₂ Coated Optical Mirror Deterioration with Epoxy Resin.”
The People’s Choice Award resulted in a tie between (Certificate/Ribbon) Matthew Robinson from Hornell with “The Making of the Grand Canyon” and Aurelia Hoover from St. Ann’s Academy with “Separating Ink: Water vs. Alcohol.”
Winning Outstanding School awards were Prattsburgh (novice division), Hinsdale (junior division), and Portville (senior division). All Outstanding School winners received a silver tray.
Each participant received a certificate of participation, and individual ribbons were presented to first-, second-, and third-place prize winners in all divisions. The Science and Technology Fair was sponsored by Otis Eastern of Wellsville, with additional funding provided by ACES, Thermo-Fisher Scientific, Alfred State Student Senate, Alfred State Science Society Club, the Physical and Life Sciences Department, the American Chemical Society, and Wards Scientific.
Additionally, about 80 volunteers consisting of faculty, staff, students, community members, and alumni assisted with the fair. Alfred State thanks everyone who helped make the 20th annual Regional Science and Technology Fair possible.

NYS Senator Fred Akshar: New state budget fails taxpayers, job seekers, businesses and families

Press Release from Senator Fred Akshar, who represents the eastern end of the Southern Tier:

(ALBANY, NY) – Crafted entirely by Democrats in total control of New York’s new one-party government, the 2019-20 state budget includes billions of dollars in new taxes and spending that will make it even more difficult for hardworking, middle-class taxpayers to provide for their families and make ends meet.

The budget includes a multitude of unfunded mandates that will drastically hamper the viability of local governments, and will also enact catastrophic changes to New York’s criminal justice system which will enhance the rights of dangerous criminals over law-abiding citizens.

“It's a sad, sad day for taxpayers across our state and a lesson in the dangerous ramifications of one-party government. As the steady bleed of outmigration continues, we should be working on ways to make New York more affordable for the residents and businesses still gutting it out every day across New York State. Instead, New York's single-party leadership has added $1.4 billion in new taxes this year and nearly $5 billion in new taxes next year. Instead of making life easier for taxpayers, the Democrat leaders in the Senate, Assembly and the Governor's mansion have effectively turned their backs on them, stuffing billions of dollars in new taxes, billions of dollars in new spending and a path to taxpayer funded political campaigns into this year's budget, all while funneling the majority of school and transportation funding directly to New York City. Upstate roads and bridges matter, Upstate schools and local municipalities matter, Upstate businesses and taxpayers matter, just not to those in charge. They've shown that the policies and agendas of the far left fringe matter more than the needs of everyday, hardworking New Yorkers.”

New taxes and fees to be enacted by Senate Democrats in the state budget include:

• A new tax on internet purchases, with an overwhelming majority of the revenue raised to be funneled to fund New York City priorities;
• A new tax on prescription drugs and medications, which would harm seniors and our most vulnerable populations;
• A new commuter tax that will hurt motorists in the Hudson Valley and on Long Island;
• A new tax on driving that will devastate Upstate New York’s tourism industry;
• A new tax on real estate transactions;
• A new grocery bag tax, which will require anyone who needs food or other basic necessities to dig a little deeper into their pockets; and
• A planned taxpayer-funded political campaign system, AKA “welfare for politicians,” through actions to be implemented by a commission which will ultimately require taxpayer dollars to fund negative campaign mailers and robocalls.

Senate Democrats once promised they wouldn’t raise taxes, but instead picked up right where they left off in 2009-10, when they raised taxes and fees 124 times, totaling $14 billion in just two years. The fiscally irresponsible trend continues today with the imminent passage of the state budget, as Senate Democrats are approving billions in new taxes that are still being tabulated.

The budget includes no increase in CHIPs funding and cuts to extreme winter recovery funds by $65 million, while fronting the MTA $100 million to pave the way for implementation of the new commuter tax. For the first time ever, the budget awards Governor Cuomo with $5 million in bullet aid.

Since the beginning of the 2019 session, Senate Republicans have offered various amendments and proposals to these job-killing tax-and-spend policies, including:

• Balancing the budget without raising or creating new taxes and fees;
• Enshrining the state spending cap into law, which would ensure that Democrats can never again blow past fiscally responsible levels concerning how they spend the taxpayer dollar;
• Accelerating and protecting the historic Middle Class Income Tax Cut previously enacted by Senate Republicans, which has already saved New Yorkers $770 million, and is one of the largest and most important tax cuts in state history;
• Implementing significant business and energy tax cuts and regulatory reforms, so that there are fewer obstacles to creating new jobs in New York;
• Reforming the voting procedure for the Public Authorities Control Board to require a majority vote on economic development projects, so that any one Senator can never again single-handedly cost New York thousands of jobs and billions in new revenue due to political considerations;

Despite many assurances by the Governor and Democrats in the Legislature, the state budget fails to reject various unfunded mandates, and most notably excludes adequate funding needed to implement the state’s early voting mandate. The New York State Board of Elections estimates that early voting will cost $175 million, a number far greater than the $25 million local governments will receive from the state. This reckless action will put additional pressure on towns, villages, and counties to raise taxes or cut essential services.

Passed annually, the New York State Budget is supposed to be as much a reflection of policy values as it is about being fiscally responsible with taxpayer money. Because of the new one-party government in New York, other Democrat-driven priorities that made it into the final budget include:

• Fully funding an initiative to provide free college tuition for illegal immigrants, while rejecting an increase in Tuition Assistance Program funding that would help middle-class families afford college;
• Allowing cashless bail, which will let violent, hardened criminals out onto the streets with no consequence or regard for public safety;
• Disproportionately underfunding school aid, with a far greater amount dedicated to New York City schools, effectively shorting aid for every other part of the state; and
• Keeping the Hollywood Film Tax Credit, despite Senate Democrats’ previous opposition to corporate incentives, such as for Amazon HQ2.

After being negotiated with little to no transparency for months by leaders of the new one-party government without garnering input from members of the minorities in both houses, passage of the 2019-20 state budget will garner an overwhelming majority of its yes votes from Democrats and New York City-located officials. The budget will create and raises taxes and spending by billions despite previous claims from the Governor’s Budget Director and Comptroller that the state was facing a multi-billion dollar deficit.

Pew: Americans Embrace Digital But Want Strong Local News Connection

“Even as the preference for digital delivery creeps up on that for news via TV, local television stations retain a strong hold in the local news ecosystem,” Pew reports. On that local front, TV leads with 38% of Americans, followed by 20% preferring local news from radio and 17% who rely on local daily newspapers. Next comes a range of less traditional sources such as online forums or discussion groups (12%), local organizations such as school groups or churches (8%), and community newsletters (8%). “While individually these less traditional sources garner far smaller audiences than the big three—local TV, daily papers and radio stations—together they add up: 28% of the public often gets news from at least one of six less traditional providers.

Viewed another way, the vast majority of Americans who get news from local TV stations primarily do so the old-fashioned way: from the TV set (76%), not from a station website or social media account (22%). Radio is similarly tied to its traditional form, with 81% listening over the air, to 15% looking at radio station websites or social media. On the other hand, 43% of daily newspaper consumers get their local news digitally.

Overall, Americans evaluate local media positively—despite the constant barrage of insults coming from the current White House, with 30% of those surveyed saying they are very confident that their main news source gets them the information they need, and another 52% saying they are somewhat confident. An overwhelming majority of adults say it is at least somewhat important for journalists to understand their community’s history (85%) and to be personally engaged with the local area (81%).

When it comes to financial support of the industry, only 14% of American adults have paid for local news in the past year, either through subscription, donation or membership. When asked why they don’t pay, the widespread availability of free content tops the list (49%). Only 10% said concerns about quality of coverage was the top reason for not paying.

Weather far outpaces other local news topics on importance in daily life for U.S. adults. “Perhaps the most basic function of local journalism is to provide residents with news across a range of topics in a way that helps them live their daily lives and take part in the community,” Pew suggests in the report. The findings show that Americans have a wide range of topical interests, but most see only a handful of topics as “important to their daily lives.” In order, behind weather, they are: crime (44%), traffic (41%) and news about changing prices (37%). Sports, on the other hand, has the largest segment (34%) who find it neither important nor interesting.

Meanwhile, most Americans (73%) follow local news at least somewhat closely, while about a quarter of U.S. adults (26%) follow local news either not very closely or not at all. Additionally, about four-in-10 (38%) don’t have any type of news provider they rely on regularly for local news, while another 30% rely regularly on just one.

Overall, nearly nine-in-10 Americans (89%) currently get at least some local news digitally (news websites, apps or social media) and 41% do so often. Looking separately at websites and apps compared with social media, roughly equal portions often get news from each (26% and 25%, respectively). And television-oriented local news consumers appear to have a stronger attachment to local news than those with digital preferences: U.S. adults who prefer getting local news online are less likely to follow local news very closely (21%, compared with 40% among those who prefer TV).

Digital local news is now being consumed more through mobile devices than desktop or laptop computers. Roughly half of those who get local news online (51%) primarily do so through a mobile device, about twice those who primarily do so on a desktop/laptop computer (27%); and 19% who get news on both types of devices equally. Finally, news alerts are a prominent part of the local news environment. Roughly four-in-10 U.S. adults (42%) get local news alerts on their mobile phone.