Agreement Follows Lawsuit on Behalf of Woman Subjected to Harassment and Discrimination in Steuben County Jail

PRESS RELEASE

BATH – Today the New York Civil Liberties Union, Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund, and the law firm BakerHostetler announced a settlement agreement with Steuben County, New York that establishes one of the strongest jail or prison policies in the country protecting the rights of transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, and intersex people in custody. The policy addresses housing placement, safety, access to medical care, name and pronouns use, search procedures, and grooming standards. It was negotiated with the involvement of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association and can serve as a model for jails across New York state and the country.

The agreement comes as a result of a 2019 lawsuit filed on behalf of Jena Faith, a transgender woman and military veteran, who spent four weeks in the Steuben County Jail awaiting trial. While she was originally housed in the women’s facility, she was transferred to the men’s facility without warning, despite the fact that she is a woman, solely because she is transgender. Ms. Faith has been recognized as a woman in all aspects of her life for many years, from her daily interactions with friends and family to the gender marker on her New York- and U.S.-issued IDs. While in the men’s facility, she was subjected to sexual harassment, abuse, and denial of her prescribed medication.

“I feel so relieved that the county is acknowledging the harm it caused me and taking steps to ensure this does not happen to anyone else,” said Jena Faith. “No one should ever be subjected to the cruelty and harassment I endured. Everyone housed in detention facilities deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, including transgender people. I hope my case will help others, not only in Steuben County, but also across New York and beyond.”

Under the settlement, the county commits itself to upholding the dignity and respect of transgender people by changing its jail policies to comply with federal and state laws. Specifically, the county will:

• Presumptively house people consistent with their gender identity.
• Ensure that staff at the jail respect a person’s self-identified gender identity in all other contexts, including name and pronoun use, and searches.
• Ensure access to clothing, toiletry items, and grooming standards consistent with a person’s gender identity.
• Ensure access to medical care consistent with a person’s gender identity.
• Compensate Ms. Faith for harms she suffered, in the amount of $60,000.
   

Nationally, transgender people are nearly ten times more likely to be sexually assaulted than the general prison population, with 40 percent of transgender people in state and federal prisons across the country reporting a sexual assault in the previous year according to the National Center for Transgender Equality. Beyond detention, transgender people, particularly transgender women of color, face widespread discrimination in employment, housing, education and health care that not only funnel them into jails and prisons but also make them particularly vulnerable to violence and negative health consequences.

“Across the state, transgender people are routinely and illegally held in facilities that are not consistent with their gender identity,” said Bobby Hodgson, staff attorney at the New York Civil Liberties Union. “This agreement establishes one of the strongest jail or prison anti-discrimination policies in the country and creates a solid framework that officials across the state should look to as they adjust their own policies to comply with the law.”

“This settlement makes clear that law enforcement have a legal and a moral obligation to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of the transgender individuals in their care,” said TLDEF Executive Director Andy Marra. “Because of Jenna’s courageous decision to challenge her mistreatment, jails and prisons here in New York and across the country now have a new policy standard to prevent future incidents of abuse and discrimination.”

Obituary: Nancy M. Hoyt, 70, Hornell

Nancy M. Hoyt, 70, of 44 Catherine St., Hornell, died Sunday afternoon (August 2, 2020) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on July 2, 1950, she was the daughter of Frederick & Ellen (McIntosh) Evans.

Nancy grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1968).  She resided in Burns, NY for about 4 years, returning to Hornell in 1978.

She had been employed in the custodial department of Alfred State College for over 30 years and also worked as a cashier at Walmart in Hornell for several years.

Nancy loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, making sure that everyone got together for holidays and other important events.

She was married for 45 years to David J. Hoyt who died January 25, 2018.

Surviving are 3 sons, Darin (Gretchen) Hoyt of Hornell, Jasin Hoyt of Hornell and Michael (Clare) Hoyt of Hornell; 2 sisters, Mary Ann (Jim) Bagley of Arkport and Marie (Dan) Hegarty of Hornell; several grandchildren, nieces, nephews & cousins.

At Nancy’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Nancy’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com. 

Obituary: Gloria Marvuglia, 87, of Andrews Settlement, PA

Gloria Marvuglia, 87, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Wednesday, August 5, 2020 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport. She was born October 11, 1932 in Newark, NJ. Gloria was a member of Andrews Settlement Baptist Church. She is survived by many friends, including Sherry Harmon, David Lydic, and Carl Lydic. She was predeceased by friends Helen Lydic and Deborah Barchet. A graveside service will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, August 10, 2020 in Andrews Settlement Cemetery.  CDC and PA Department of Health guidelines apply. Rev. Dale Post will officiate. Memorials may be made to Genesee Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 9, Genesee, PA 16923. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Scio Lions Club thankful for continued community support

The Scio Lions Club wishes to thank all that supported our recent Gas Grill/ Gift Certificate raffle.

To the residents and land owners of Scio and Allentown-

The winners are:

Gas grill from Brand Name Appliances is Dennis Dudeck 

Gift certificate to The Store Deb Perry , Mike Case 

Gift Certificate to Mike's on the Corner Linda Rogers

Gift Certificate to Crosby's Joan Scarpena 

We received entries from Scio, Allentown, Bolivar, Wellsville, Belmont, Tonawanda, Grand Island, Hilton  among others.

Because of your generosity, we are able to continue our motto of "We Serve"

Thank you all.

Scio Lions Club

Allegany County COVID-19 update

New York launches statwide crackdown on speeding

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State Police and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols over the next week to crack down on speeding across the state. Unsafe speed was a contributing factor in 34 percent of all fatal crashes from January to May this year, compared to 30 percent of fatal crashes during the same period in 2019, according to data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research at the University at Albany's Rockefeller College.

 

"Speed limits are not a suggestion, they are the law and they save lives," said Governor Cuomo. "There is no excuse for driving at high speeds - it's unnecessary and endangers everyone on the road -- and I urge New Yorkers to be smart and slow down because it's not worth risking lives to save a few seconds on your next commute or trip to the store."

 

This high-visibility enforcement campaign is supported by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee to stop speeding and prevent avoidable crashes caused by unsafe speed. Throughout the enforcement blitz, a "No Excuses" public service announcement will be airing on broadcast and cable networks statewide, highlighting the penalty for speeding. Additionally, the State Department of Transportation will have Variable Message Signs alerting motorists to the dangers of speeding.

 

Data shows fatal crashes in New York caused by unsafe speed increases during the summer months with the highest totals in June through September. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2018, nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in the state were caused by speeding, and among those fatalities, 42 percent occurred on local roads -- where the posted speed limits were 55 miles per hour or under. Furthermore, in 2018, 36 percent of the speed-related fatal and personal injury crashes occurred between noon and 6 P.M.   

 

According to the NHTSA, drivers who speed are also more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as not wearing a seat belt, drinking and driving, or using a cell phone while driving.

 

Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "GTSC's continued support for specialized enforcement campaigns like Speed Awareness Week not only raises awareness for important traffic safety issues, but makes New York's roadways safer for all those traveling. There's no excuse for speeding. Slow down so you and everyone else on the road make it to your destinations safely."

 

State Police Superintendent Keith M. Corlett said, "There's no getting around the facts: Speeding is dangerous behavior that needlessly results in deaths and serious injuries. During this campaign and through enforcement efforts all year, our goal is to reduce speed related crashes and improve safe travel for everyone on New York's roadways. We urge all drivers - do your part to improve safety and obey posted speed limits, drive defensively, and put away your smart phone when you're behind the wheel."

 

Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "In highway work zones, following safe speed limits is literally a matter of life and death. Speed limits in work zones are in place not only to protect drivers, but the workers who put themselves at risk every day in the name of highway safety.  The Department of Transportation is proud to support public safety campaigns such as 'Speed Week' to help raise awareness of the importance of maintaining safe speeds on New York State's highways, and we will continue to partner with law enforcement across New York to ensure motorists follow the rules of the road."

 

Washington County Sheriff and President of the New York State Sheriffs' Association Jeffrey Murphy said, "On behalf of the New York State Sheriffs, we encourage everyone to obey the speed limit.  Speeding is often cited as a factor in crashes, especially ones that hurt and kill people. Driving the speed limit gives you more time to react and hopefully avoid a crash."

 

Town of Greece Police Chief and President of the NYS Association of Chiefs of Police Patrick Phelan said, "It's unfortunate that despite concerted statewide enforcement efforts, speed continues to be a predominate factor in traffic crashes. We strongly support collaborative and dedicated campaigns like this that combine compelling traffic safety awareness messaging and highly visible enforcement activity."

 

The "Speed Awareness Week" enforcement campaign is part of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee's ongoing efforts to improve safety on New York roadways. In addition to sponsoring critical training for law enforcement, the GTSC also funds education and enforcement campaigns throughout the year and holds public events to raise awareness on critical traffic safety issues such as safe teen driving, drowsy driving, motorcycle safety, pedestrian safety, and seatbelt use.  

Obituary: Pamela S. Taylor, 58, Rushford

Rushford---Pamela S. Taylor, 58, of 8934 Lower Street, died Monday August 3, 2020 in her home. She was born on April 3, 1962 in Cuba, a daughter of the late Theodore “Ted” and Esther Bliss Taylor.

Pam was a former employee of Prestolite Co. in Arcade. Her greatest joy was being with her granddaughter.

Surviving are a son, Dylan Taylor, a granddaughter, Emma Taylor, a sister, Sandy Taylor, two brothers, Kevin (Dawn) Taylor all of Rushford, Dale (Sally) Taylor of Colorado and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 7, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in White Cemetery, Rushford.  Jerry Clark Jr. will officiate. Flowers are gratefully appreciated.  The funeral service will be streamed.

Does Your Business Need a Life Raft?

While the world remains in various phases of the pandemic pause, businesses everywhere are scrambling to regain their footing.  This may feel like a lonely journey, however no business will stay unaffected from the repercussions of the pandemic, so you are in good company!  Of course that is cold comfort if you are a small business with the daily task of juggling cash flow, employee and customer welfare, and maybe even fighting to save a family business that has survived through generations of sweat equity.  Yes, it is a scary world, with an invisible boogey man.   

However help awaits, because Allegany and Steuben Counties have what some call their best kept secret!  Let me introduce you to IncubatorWorks…with facilities in Alfred and Corning, they aren’t just for Tech companies anymore.  IncubatorWorks has expanded their mentoring services deep into the community to help businesses starting up, business needing to recover after a downturn, and to build an ecosystem of entrepreneurs that can lift up the economic profile of their community.  Renting space in the facility is no longer necessary to receive mentoring, nor do they need to be a new business, as a healthy economic ecosystem depends on keeping on-going businesses vibrant as well.   And with the magic of the internet, mentoring can be done via an online platform such as Zoom.

Mentors at the incubator have all been entrepreneurs themselves and have varied expertise ranging from retail, to accounting, to manufacturing to name a few.  They also expand their areas of expertise by tapping into the mentors of their incubator partners through the Western New York Incubator Network and the Southern Tier Startup Alliance.  All totaled, businesses have a wide and deep bench of world-class experts at their disposal!  Recently, IncubatorWorks hosted a series of online workshops to help local businesses navigate the varied and ever-changing funding available to mitigate the economic damages from the pandemic. 

All of pandemic challenges are enough to make a business owner want to throw in the towel, and now there is even more to figure out as studies show that consumer behavior is changing as the waves of the pandemic ebb and flow.  Discretionary spending is less while shifting to essentials; there is a flight to the digital world…and most consumers plan to continue shopping on-line; a shock to loyalty with disruption in shopping behavior…consumers have changed preferred retailers; the desire for health and “caring” economy…a “safe place” to shop; and a homebody economy…many consumers don’t yet feel comfortable resuming “normal” out-of-home activities. 

What these changes mean to entrepreneurs is significant; do I change my model to online and how do I do that?  Marketing may need to be reinvented as tradeshows and other face-to-face networking is out and social media is more important than ever.  Do I offer new products and services which risks spending precious funds?  Talk about a full plate!

All these things said, this is also an incredible time to start new businesses.   For example, according to the RV Industry Association, RV sales in some areas have sped up 170 percent over the same time period last year.  This will result in a new growth sector in servicing, detailing, winterizing, and storing these vehicles.   Overall, outdoor activities are experiencing significant growth which will provide opportunities for entrepreneurs who are innovative and ready to seize the moment.  Need a tagline for your outdoor business?  Breathe in the fresh air while playing in the wide-open spaces of the WNY Wilds!

Do you feel like you need a navigator or maybe a life raft?  Are you toying with starting a new business to take advantage of new opportunities? The mentors at IncubatorWorks want to help! 

Contact: Ashleigh Madison – 410.713.8612 – Amadison@incworks.org.  

And the best secret of all…no charge to businesses!  IncubatorWorks receives State funding to support their mission of economic development through a healthy and vibrant business community.  Darwin was wrong, it is not survival of the fittest but survival of the most adaptable.  You can do this…give us a call. 

Wellsville Police Blotter

A male, age 17 from Wellsville, was arrested for Obstruction of Governmental Administration in the 2nd degree, Criminal Contempt in the 2nd degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence following a brief investigation.  The male was issued appearance tickets for Family Court on 8/19 upon the request of Family Court. 
 

Christopher N. Vickers, age 30 from Wellsville, was arrested for Harassment in the 2nd degree, Criminal Mischief in the 4th degree and Reckless Endangerment in the 2nd degree following an incident which occurred at an East Fassett Street residence on 8/2.  Vickers was arraigned via Skype in Allegany County Court and released on his own recognizance.

Obituary: Anna L. Jordan, 76, of Gold, PA

Anna L. Jordan, 76, of Gold, PA, died Monday, August 3, 2020 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.

Born November 21, 1943, in Coudersport, she was the daughter of Warren E. and Ann Violet Bird White. On July 27, 1968, in Coudersport, she married Earl C. Jordan, who survives. A graduate of Coudersport High School, she was employed by Mapleview Care Home in Coudersport as a nurse’s aide and by Pure Carbon in Coudersport. Anna was a caregiver for many neighborhood children and served as a 4-H leader.

Surviving besides her husband, Earl, are: five children, Michael Jordan of Gold, Sandra (Joseph) Cole of Coudersport, Richard Jordan of Gold, Robert (Grace) Jordan of Coudersport, and Janell (Will) Neuhauser of Wellsboro; five grandchildren, Dylan Jordan, Kasey Cole, Keven Jordan, Keith Cole, and Katrina Neuhauser; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased six brothers, Thomas White, Warren David White, William F. White, Arthur A. White, Raymond E. White, and Paul White; and four sisters, Jocelyn White, Elizabeth Petrovcik, Carol V. White, and Ruth A. White.

Friends may call at the Gold Church, 2402 SR 49 W, Ulysses, PA on Friday, August 7, 2020 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., with Funeral Services following at 11:00 a.m. CDC and PA Department of Health guidelines apply. Rev. Cameron Cowburn will officiate. Burial will be in Raymond Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Tri-Town Volunteer Firemen’s Auxiliary, P.O. Box 156, Ulysses, PA 16948 or the Gold Church, 2402 SR 49 W, Ulysses, PA 16948. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Three New Cases of COVID-19 in Steuben

BATH – The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that three additional Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total to 312 confirmed cases, 11 of which are currently active.  The individuals are residents of the:

·         Town of Dansville

·         Town of Greenwood

·         Village of Avoca

The individuals are isolated and being monitored by the County Health Department.  Public Health staff investigated and identified close contacts of the confirmed cases and exposure risks.  All those known to have direct contact with the individuals have been notified. 

Per CDC and New York State Department of Health guidance, information is collected beginning 48 hours prior to symptom onset or date of test if asymptomatic through the day of the positive test result to identify any potential exposure risks.  The investigation indicates one or more of the individuals traveled outside of New York State and that the individuals visited the following local locations within the timeframe:

·         7/22/20 Morning – Wegmans in Corning

·         7/23/20 Morning – Walmart in Painted Post

·         7/25/20 Afternoon – Outback Steakhouse in Horseheads

·         7/27/20 – 7/31/20 – Absolut Care of Three Rivers in Painted Post

·         7/31/20 Afternoon – Dollar General in Avoca

·         8/2/20 Afternoon – Barnes and Noble in Big Flats

·         8/2/20 Afternoon – Arnot Mall: Shoe Department, FYE, Game Stop, Food Court

·         8/3/20 Morning – Louie’s Gun Shop in Bath

“Wear masks when in public to lower the risk of spreading COVID-19,” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “The virus is still very much present in our community, and we all need to take precautions to limit the spread.  Be smart, be safe, and protect your loved ones by continuing the effective prevention strategies that have been outlined for months.”      

All residents should continue to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills or repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell and contact their healthcare provider for instructions if feeling ill.  

Thelma Rogers Genealogical and Historical Society News

The Nathaniel Dike Museum located at 118 E. Dyke St in Wellsville, will be open today, August 5th from 1 to 4 p.m. Come see our newest iconic addition to the museum. Robert (Pisky) Piscitelli’s barber chair that he used for 64 years. All are welcomed. Come get aquatinted with history.

Also, the Thelma Rogers Genealogical and Historical Society will have their annual picnic in Island Park today, August 5th at 6 p.m. Bring a dish to pass, lawn chair and some good stories to share. Paper products, drinks and hand sanitizers will be provided. Restrictions already set in place will be followed. Hope to see many of you there.

Whitesville Blooms

Last year several visitors turned out to enjoy the special blooms and the whimsey of the town's gardeners at the Whitesville Garden Tour.

Whitesville will be blooming for flower lovers Saturday when the Whitesville Public Library hosts its annual garden tour to raise funds for the library.

There are nine gardens on the tour which takes place from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Those gardens open to visitors are gardens belonging to Robyn Lynch, Ron and Cindy Welch, Mark and Kerry West, Wayne and Rita Crittenden, Toby Weihoneig and Sandy Knoles, Kane Stebbins, Ed and Bonnie Billings, Aaron and Joanna Clark and Kenny and Helen Coppage.

No transportation is being provided this year, the tour starts and ends at the library where a map of the route is available. The cost of the tour is a donation to the library. The library is located at 500 Main Street, near the fire hall.

The selected gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and to talk about their gardens and designs.

Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. No rain date has been set for the event. Those wanting to attend but who are unsure of the weather, should call the library at 607-356-3645 the day of the event.

The rules pertaining to Covid-19 will be followed, maintain social distancing, and wear a mask.

Prison for Corning man on repeated child porn conviction

CORNING MAN GOING TO PRISON FOR MORE THAN

12 YEARS FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

 

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Robert W. Wood, 50, of Corning, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography and violation of supervised release, was sentenced to serve 154 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.

 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in 2011, the defendant was convicted of possession of child pornography and sentenced to 24 months in prison and 15 years supervised release. While on supervised release, members of the U.S. Probation Department made an unannounced visit to Wood’s residence and found an unauthorized smart phone in his possession. A search of the phone revealed that the defendant was in possession of over 2,300 images and over 20 videos of child pornography, some of which depicted the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers.

 

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the U.S. Probation Department, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Anthony SanGiacomo.

REED CELEBRATES SIGNING OF GREAT AMERICAN OUTDOORS ACT

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Representative Tom Reed joined President Donald Trump, Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, and lawmakers from the Senate and House for the signing of the “Great American Outdoors Act”.

Reed co-sponsored the legislation, and the Problem Solvers Caucus, which Reed co-chairs, endorsed the bill in July.

“We care about the preservation and conservation of our country’s natural treasures, landmarks, wildlife, and public lands,” said Representative Tom Reed. “By securing annual funding to eliminate a backlog of maintenance at our national parks and historical sites, this legislation will ensure generations of future Americans will be able to enjoy everything our great nation has to offer. We appreciate the administration’s ongoing leadership on this issue and will continue to fight in a bipartisan manner to protect our environment.” 

"The Great American Outdoors Act is the conservation bill of a generation. ACC's members thank Representative Reed for his leadership and commitment to protecting our nation's parks and public lands," said Quill Robinson, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Conservation Coalition.

The historic conservation bill will help ensure public lands are protected and preserved. The bipartisan legislation will provide full, permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at a level of $900 million every year and address the approximately $20 billion maintenance backlog on federal public lands.

The bill will support important historical sites and beautiful wildlife areas across New York’s 23rd district, including:

• The Women's Rights National Historical Park
• The Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
• The Finger Lakes National Forest

The full livestream of the ceremony can be found here. 

A clip of the President thanking members can be found here. 

Allegany County COVID-19 Update