Alfred University COVID testing update

 Dear Alfred University alumni, parents, and friends:

 

Test results for the last few days have revealed the challenge we face in controlling COVID-19 on our campus. 

As of today, test results (all testing 9/4 through 10/1) are as follows:

• Total tests administered 9/28:                                129
• Total positive results from 9/28 testing:                2
• Total tests administered to date:                           1643
• Total positive test results to date:                          8
• Total students currently in isolation:                     8 (1 off campus)
• Total students currently in quarantine:                 22

 

As a reminder, if a student tests positive the following steps are taken:

• The Wellness Center and the Allegany County Department of Health immediately begin contact tracing for the students identified as positive.
• The students identified as positive are placed in isolation.
• If the test protocol was a pool test, all students in that pool are placed in precautionary isolation.
• Once reflex test results are received for the pool(s), students who are negative for COVID-19 are released from precautionary isolation.
• Anyone identified through contact tracing who is required to quarantine is identified, informed, and directed to quarantine.

 

We have also become aware that certain Alfred University students, especially in off-campus housing, are continuing to plan and/or hold larger-group gatherings at which COVID-19 safeguards are not being maintained. We remind you that wherever these gatherings occur, the result will be a referral to the Dean of Student Wellbeing for determination of the sanctions appropriate for the party organizers, hosts, and attendees.

We remind students that participation in weekly surveillance testing is a requirement. As with the previous phase of testing, any students who are selected and who fail to appear for a scheduled surveillance test will be referred for a conduct review, which could culminate in probation, suspension, or expulsion for non-compliance. Moreover, students who break quarantine or isolation may face immediate suspension or expulsion.

University-sponsored structured activities and programs will continue, but with new or renewed restrictions in place. These include:

• Athletics reverts back to the Week 1 schedule. This includes small groups of 10 or fewer people and no contact. Tennis and swimming are currently on pause. Athletic Trainers continue to be on site at practices to ensure students are adhering to the necessary safety protocols. Practices that take place inside will be for less than 60 minutes and involve fewer than 10 people. Practices will take place outside as much as possible. Strength and conditioning is set up outside with 10-12 feet between individuals, and limited to 12 or fewer people. Masks and social distancing are required for practices and strength and conditioning.
• The Equestrian Center will host regular practices and classes, which are limited to five and seven students, respectively. Lessons and community service projects are paused until further notice
• Student Activities is organizing events and activities with a preference for the outdoors and under one hour in length. Small gatherings inside of 10 or fewer people in appropriate spaces may be held and outdoor activities may be held with 25 or fewer people. Local trips are limited to locations that total an hour in the vehicle at ½ capacity. Masks and social distancing continue to be required at all events and activities. Some of the upcoming activities include outdoor movies, game nights with a mix of virtual and in-person players, an outdoor concert with specific safety measures in place to include a 15-20 foot barrier from the stage, and a mobile petting zoo. Check AU Connect or the Corq app for details!

 

Please note that the University recommends flu shots for our students to reduce the risk of contracting the flu this fall. If you would like to schedule a flu shot, please call the Wellness Center at 607-871-2400. The cost is $15, which will be charged to your student account.

 

Alfred University COVID-19 Testing Team

Obituary: Myrtle E. Koleszar, 98, Caneadea

Caneadea --- Myrtle E. Koleszar of 9876 Luckey Drive and a former resident of Caneadea died Wednesday, September 30, 2020 in the Houghton Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility. She was born on May 7, 1922 in Caneadea, a daughter of the late Alanson Andrew Jackson and Lucy Patterson Burr III. She married Victor Smith who predeceased her in 1948, later she married Bronislaus Adamowich who predeceased her in 1967, and afterward she married Joseph Koleszar who predeceased her in 1992.

Myrtle was a graduate of Belfast Central School, class of 1940 and served as Postmistress for the town of Caneadea for 30 years retiring in 1980. She was a member of the Caneadea United Methodist Church.

She made frequent trips to the Salvation Army, enjoyed writing letters, cooking, collecting recipes and loved her dogs and cats.

Surviving is a son, John (Robin) Adamawich of Jacksonville, FL, her grandchildren, August (Jason) Nibbs, John (Heather) Adamowich, Zachary (Michelle) Adamowich, Alan (Nicole) Adamowich, Lesley (Adam) Bliss, Jill (Chris) Chamberlain, Tammy Tingley, Suzanna (Allen) Rudolph, several great-grandchildren, her siblings, Crystal Michel of Sanborn, Grover Stewart of Caneadea, Mary (James) Mountain of Belfast, Donald (Mary) Burr of Wellsville, Judith (Alan) Mills of Wiscoy and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husbands and parents she was predeceased by a daughter, Diane Kelley in 2015, four siblings, Andrew Burr, Burton Burr, Bruce Burr and Elizabeth Burr.

A private gathering will be held at the Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N. Genesee Street, Fillmore. A graveside service will be announced at a later date. Burial will be in Burrville Cemetery, Caneadea.

Memorials if desired to: Caneadea United Methodist Church or the Allegany County SPCA.  

Obituary: Frank Neil Muzzy II, 34, Freedom

Freedom --- Frank Neil Muzzy II of 10857 Galen Hill Road died Tuesday, September 29, 2020 in Ellicottville. He was born on July 20, 1986 in Olean, a son of Frank Muzzy and Jennifer Hallock.

Neil was a member of the Centerville United Methodist Church. He was a current employee for Empire Building Diagnostics in Depew and he enjoyed his job. He loved to go bow hunting but most of all he loved his family and would do anything for anyone in his family.

Surviving in addition to his father, Frank Muzzy, and his mother Jennifer (Bruce) Moore of Fillmore is a daughter, Eleanor Janet Muzzy, two sisters, Alesia Speta of Delevan, Aurora Kraft of Fillmore, his maternal grandmother, Janet Arnold of Fillmore, his maternal grandfather, Dale (Garnet) Hallock of Franklinville, his paternal grandfather, Clarence Muzzy of Depew, his paternal grandmother, Shirley Baughn of Buffalo, two nephews, Kasey and Leland Speta, a special aunt, Jo (Anson) Bova, several Aunts and Uncles and two special cousins, Russell Prichard of Arcade, Brandi Prichard of Freedom.

He was predeceased by a maternal step-grandfather, William G. Arnold on May 24, 2018.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 9, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. in Centerville Cemetery. Bob Schooley, pastor of the Centerville United Methodist Church will officiate. Memorials if desired to: Centerville United Methodist Church.

Wellsville: Town Board plans another budget work session

LEGAL NOTICE OF BUDGET WORK SESSION:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a BUDGET WORK SESSION will be held by the Wellsville Town Board, Allegany County, State of New York at the Town Office, at the Wellsville Municipal Airport in said Town on October 6, 2020 at 6 p.m. 

Danielle Osgood, Town Clerk  

BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Observed in October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a nationwide campaign celebrating the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. This year marks not only the 75th observance of NDEAM, but also the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This year’s theme is: "Increasing Access and Opportunity." 

NDEAM’s history dates back to 1945, when Congress declared the first week in October each year as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was dropped to acknowledge individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, the federal legislature expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. 

“National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a national initiative designed to increase the employment of people with disabilities,” said Christina Lyon, Allegany Arc’s Vice President of Vocational Services. “Every day, people with disabilities can and do add value to America’s workplaces. The NDEAM campaign’s goal is to drive positive change through the hiring, retention and advancement of people with disabilities in America’s workforce and by illustrating that at work, it’s what people can do that matters.”

 

“There are a variety of potential financial incentives that a business may utilize when they employ people with disabilities such as the Federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, NYS Workers with Disabilities Employment Tax Credit, Work Try-Out, On-The-Job Training, Job Coach Services, Architectural/Transportation Tax Deduction and Small Business Tax Credit,” said Lyon. “With a tight job market, one in which skilled, dedicated workers are hard to find, it is important to look everywhere for talent. Recruiting should extend to nontraditional sources, including individuals with physical, mental, and communication disabilities. If you are interested in diversifying your business, please contact me at (585) 593-3005 ext. 227.”

 

Learn how Allegany Arc’s ACHIEVE Career Consultants provide multiple avenues for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to prepare for and become successful members of the workforce community through avenues such as community and vocational assessments, school to work programs, job placement, supported employment and on-site simulated job training experiences by visiting www.AlleganyArc.org/ACHIEVE.

Allegany County COVID and quarantine cases jump

 

GVCS STUDENTS ENGAGE WITH UPCOMING PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Students at Genesee Valley Central School are engaging with this year’s Presidential election in a truly hands-on fashion. As part of their Participation in Government class, a required course for graduation taught by Mrs. Sarah Horne, the students learn about all aspects of the voting and election process.

Each fall, Mrs. Horne begins her class with a unit about the upcoming election in November. Included in the curriculum is the opportunity for students to register to vote. In coordination with the board of elections in Belmont, Mrs. Horne walks students through the process of registering—from filling out paper registration forms, registering for a party (if the students wish), and submitting the forms in time to vote in the election. Even if students are not eligible to vote by November because they will not yet turn 18, they can still complete and submit their paperwork.

An important aspect of the class includes an analysis of the candidates and issues. As part of the class, each student takes an approximately 85-question diagnostic that evaluates their political opinions and reveals which candidates most closely align with their beliefs. The survey, which can be found at www.isidewith.com,  is not affiliated with any political party or special interest group and was created  by two friends to boost voter engagement.  Many questions align with current issues and the political climate unique to this election year.

“My survey results were spot on,” said Carson Cooke, a senior in the class. “I got 88% Libertarian and 80% Republican; since I’m a Libertarian Republican I wasn’t surprised!”

Another student, Christian Tuttle, commented: “I am happy with my survey results because before the quiz I didn’t know anything about politics and didn’t really pay attention to it. Now I’m interested in seeing who wins the election!”

The questions on the survey cover a wide range of issues and topics, including military spending, immigration, environmental regulations, abortion, gun rights and nuclear energy.

“There was even a question about the coronavirus on the survey,” said senior Savannah Werner. “Little did we know at the beginning of the year that the coronavirus would have a role in politics!”

Mrs. Horne has administered the survey to her class for a number of years: “Most students say the survey they take is accurate, but about a third of the students are surprised with which party and candidates the survey aligns them with. Overall, the exercise provides a platform for discussion, encouraging students to make decisions issue to issue and topic to topic.”

Natalie Brodman, a senior in the class, is grateful for the discussion-based format of the class: “My favorite part of class is definitely when we get into discussions about topics happening in our world and hearing my classmates’ opinions on them. Some of us have some strong opinions and we get into some good ‘arguments’ on what we believe.”

“My hope for the class,” concluded Mrs. Horne, “is that students will learn to study political topics so that they can make their own informed decision about what they believe. I never want to convince or change anyone’s mind; I want them to give an answer for what they stand for politically and be able to articulate that in an educated and logical way.”

Voter registration forms can be picked up at the Board of Elections Office or at Genesee Valley Central School just inside the main entrance.

Allegany County needs Election Inspectors

Election Inspectors needed

Allegany County needs 20 to 25 more Election Inspectors for the Nov. 3^rd election according to Deputy Election Commissioner Marcy Crawford who along with Deputy Commissioner, Barb Broughton help run the Allegany County Board of Elections located in Belmont.

After several training sessions there is still a need for additional inspectors Crawford noted, “We need 156 inspectors to get by. We have between 172 and 174 but many of them are part-timers. We need to train an additional 20 to 25 more inspectors,” she said.

Election Inspectors are required for primaries and special elections throughout the year. There are 39 districts and 33 polling places throughout the county that need to be covered on Nov. 3^rd.

Some of the duties of an election inspector are to help set up and take down the poll sites, verify voter registration and this year, maintain protocols required to keep in-person voters safe from coronavirus infection.

Election Inspectors do not monitor voting for a particular candidate.

Those who undergo the one-day training and work on Election Day receive $39.50 for the training and $194.00 for working a full shift on Election Day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Half day shifts are available. Payments will be pro-rated for the number of hours worked on Election Day.

Training Day for new inspectors will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 10 at a site yet to be announced.

Those wishing to hire on as election inspectors for Allegany County should call the Board of Elections office at 558-268-9295/9294 on or before Wednesday, Oct. 7^th. 

Early Voting for Allegany County

Prior to Election Day, early voting will take place at the Board of Elections, located at 8 Willets Ave. (behind the green church) on state Route 19, from Oct. 24 to Nov. 1.

There is also a drop box there for depositing absentee/mail in ballots.

Early Voting days are:

Saturday Oct. 24^th and Sunday 25^th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 26^th from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

 Tuesday Oct. 27^th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 28^th from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 29^th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 30th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Saturday, Oct. 31^st and Sunday Nov. 1^st from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Actions filed against Guthrie surgeon, Guthrie Clinic and Towanda Memorial Hospital for catastrophic brain injuries during routine tonsillectomies

Press Release

Two families are continuing to live every parent’s worst nightmare following what they thought would be routine tonsillectomies at Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital in Towanda, Pennsylvania. 

On February 20, 2019, Allie Yackel of Elmira, New York, who was six years old at the time, had her tonsils and adenoids removed by Dr. Arvinder Uppal, who was working at the time as a Guthrie otolaryngologist. “At first we were told everything was okay,” said Becca Yackel, Allie’s mother. “But it was quickly evident that something was very wrong.” 

According to a civil complaint filed today in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Yackel became hypoxic with low oxygen saturation and was unable to be properly extubated at the end of surgery. Later that day she was taken by ambulance to Upstate University Hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in Syracuse, New York, where neurologists determined Yackel had suffered a brainstem stroke during surgery. Yackel remained at Upstate University Hospital for several months where she underwent a tracheostomy and placement of a feeding tube and received intensive rehabilitative treatment. 

On February 27, 2019, exactly one week after Allie’s surgery, Aasen May of Newfield, New York, who was five years old at the time, had her tonsils and adenoids removed by Dr. Uppal. 

The complaint states that, as with Allie, Aasen seemed fine until providers found she was unable to breathe on her own without intubation. Taken to the Pediatric Critical Care Unit at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania, Aasen was also diagnosed with a brainstem stroke and had to undergo a tracheostomy and placement of a feeding tube. 

“Even though it has been eighteen months since all of this started, I still feel like we will wake up one day and find it isn’t real,” said Shelby Sansouci, Aasen’s mother. 

The complaint, filed by Elmira lawyer Christina Sonsire, alleges Dr. Uppal caused Yackel and May to suffer catastrophic brain injuries after he injected Marcaine with Epinephrine into their posterior pharyngeal walls to a depth within the adenoid region at the end of surgery. 

“Our allegation, after consulting with medical experts in the field of pediatric otolaryngology, is that Dr. Uppal injected Marcaine with Epinephrine, a local anesthetic, far too deeply into their adenoid beds, causing both girls to suffer brainstem bleeds and profound long-term neurological consequences,” Sonsire explained. “These are extraordinarily unusual injuries that require conduct far outside the standard of medical care.” 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs recently filed a formal disciplinary action against Dr. Uppal in which it also alleges the neurological injuries suffered by Yackal and May were caused by Dr. Uppal’s negligent injections of Marcaine with Epinephrine into the girls’ adenoid beds at the end of surgery. 

“Although we allege the injuries were caused by Dr. Uppal’s negligent injections, the failure of the Guthrie system to properly investigate what caused Allie to suffer such an unusual surgical injury before Dr. Uppal was permitted to operate on Aasen also gives rise to several causes of action, including claims for punitive damages,” stated Sonsire.

The civil complaint and disciplinary filing by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania claim the failures to investigate how Yackel’s injury occurred before May’s surgery violate the standard of care within the medical profession. 

Unfortunately, both girls suffered life-altering injuries, Sonsire said. 

“The good news is that Allie and Aasen are here with us today. However, Aasen still relies on a tracheostomy to breathe, and both girls have suffered what tragically appear to be permanent and very significant speech, balance and vision problems as a result of their brain injuries,” Sonsire said.

 Becca Yackel and Shelby Sansouci credit social media for helping them find each other. “Becca messaged me after a family member forwarded her a post she had seen about Aasen,” said Sansouci. “I still am stunned but so incredibly grateful that we found each other. Our families have been living similar nightmares since the surgeries. Having someone who truly understands has helped us so much.”

“Finding Shelby was a blessing as we have been able to share information and support each other, but it makes me so sad to know another family is going through this,” said Becca Yackel. “Living with a tracheostomy is really tough for Aasen,” said Sansouci. “She needs a one-onone nurse at all times for the limited occasions when she is able to attend school, and she has had several medical emergencies because of it. We just take things day by day. It’s the only way we can get by.” 

“Never in a million years did I think my beautiful baby girl would be permanently brain injured like this from a tonsillectomy,” said Becca Yackel. “We try to only focus on positive, but I can’t help thinking about the incredible impact this has and will continue to have on her life.” 

In incredible twists of fate, last summer Becca Yackel and her husband Brad learned they were expecting a baby and that their due date was February 20, 2020, one year to the day of Allie’s surgery. “To say we were shocked would be a gross understatement,” Brad Yackel said. “Our son Corbin was born on February 21st. The past year and a half has been filled with so many extreme highs and lows for us. It is often hard for me to believe it all really happened.” 

This summer it was Shelby and Luke Sansouci’s turn to be shocked when they learned they are expecting a baby boy this February. “Our families are connected to each other and to the month of February in the most unusual ways,” said Sansouci. “Learning we are having a baby has brought so much joy to Aasen. We know far too well that every day we have with our children is a gift.”

Town of Alma cancels October 6th meeting - family crisis cited

 

International Day of Older Persons

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) today commemorates the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons, passed by the United Nations on December 14, 1990. Each year on October 1, the International Day of Older Persons recognizes the important contributions older adults make to communities across the world, and this year raises awareness of the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the health and wellness of the older adult population.

 
“The International Day of Older Persons provides an important opportunity to celebrate the contributions older adults make to their families and communities as volunteers and leaders and to the economic health of our state,” said NYSOFA Acting Director Greg Olsen. “Older individuals remain at greater risk for COVID-19, and we need to continue pandemic-related policies and program interventions to protect their health and safety as well as address the areas of need identified throughout this pandemic, such as social isolation." 
 
The emergence of COVID-19 has caused an upheaval across New York and the world. This year’s International Day of Older Persons theme includes a strong focus on the special health needs of older persons and of their contributions to their own health and to the societies in which they live; and increasing understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on older people and its effect on health care policy, planning, and attitudes.
 
New York State’s total population is over 19 million individuals, and 4.6 million people are age 60 and older. An additional 3.7 million people in the state are between 45-59 years old. Older adults are the backbone of our communities, and their social, economic, intellectual, and civic contributions are essential to making our state a great place to live for people of all ages.

During the pandemic, NYSOFA, in partnership with its 59 area agencies on aging and almost 1,200 community-based partners have continued to deliver essential core services. Because New Yorkers have taken seriously the guidance to stay at home and practice social distancing to slow the spread of the virus, the network of aging services professionals has been providing many more enhanced services such as home delivered meals, groceries and supply deliveries; medication deliveries; transportation to critical services such as dialysis, cancer treatments, etc., combating social isolation, identifying and addressing elder abuse and scams, and much more.
 
NYSOFA and the aging services network serve as sources of trusted information, continuously providing facts and ongoing updates about the deadliness of the virus, as well as federal and state issued guidance and protocols to ensure the health and safety of all New Yorkers, particularly high-risk individuals, including older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
 
Access to timely, accurate information about the risks and impact of COVID-19 is critical for all New Yorkers to protect themselves and others.
 
NYSOFA in partnership with BellAge, Inc., and the Association on Aging in New York recently announced the launch of CV19 CheckUp in New York State, a free, anonymous, personalized online tool that evaluates an individual’s risks associated with COVID-19 based on their life situation and individual behavior and provides recommendations and resources to reduce those risks. The tool was developed by BellAge to help people be safer, healthier, and ensure their individual needs are met during the pandemic. CV19 CheckUp fills a critical need for a comprehensive resource that educates, advises, and empowers individuals to help protect themselves from COVID-19: http://newyork.cv19checkup.org/.
 
About the New York State Office for the Aging and Health Across All Policies/Age-Friendly New York
The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) continuously works to help the state’s 4.3 million older adults be as independent as possible for as long as possible through advocacy, development and delivery of person-centered, consumer-oriented, and cost-effective policies, programs, and services that support and empower older adults and their families, in partnership with the network of public and private organizations that serve them.
 
New York is nationally recognized for being the first age-friendly state in the nation. Using the state’s Prevention Agenda as the overarching framework, in 2017, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo launched a Health Across All Policies approach, where public and private partners work together to positively impact population health by marrying health care, preventive health, and community design, in concert with addressing social determinants of health, to improve the lives of all New Yorkers, young and old.
 
Stay connected—download the NYSOFA mobile app for iOS or Android; visit the NYSOFA Facebook page; follow @NYSAGING on Twitter and NYSAging on Instagram; or visit aging.ny.gov.

Cuba: Palmer Opera House program update

CUBA - The Palmer Opera House would like to provide an update.

Our Trivia Nights and Open Mic Nights have been pushed back until 2021. Please stay tuned!

We are ordering more puzzles and they should be in soon!

Bennie & The Jets is RESCHEDULED to MAY 15 due to Covid. All previous tickets sold are being honored for this new date!

The raffle for the Chet Swier is still going on.
Thank you for your on going support!
-The Palmer Opera House

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Getting Down to the Roots

BELMONT, NEW YORK – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County’s Agriculture Program welcomes you to join us for a zoom presentation, Getting Down to the Roots, led by Allegany County’s Horticultural Educator, Jeremy Baier. The program will be held Tuesday, October 6^th, via Zoom, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Any interest in knowing about the magical kingdom of fungi? So much is unknown about the mycological world, we’ve managed to scrape the surface of life’s underground neural network! We will cover the impact fungi has had on Earth, how life would not exist without it and how fungi can be used to help remediate eroded and dying ecosystems. There will be an opportunity for questions after the presentation has finished.

Pre-registration is required and there is no fee for the program. Please contact Jeremy Baier, Allegany County Cooperative Extension at 585-268-7644 ext. 14, or by email jtb273@cornell.edu for details in order to attend.

 

This zoom presentation is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County (CCE-Allegany). The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university Cornell administers the system in this state. For more information, call 525-268-7644 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/allegany. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

UR St. James Primary Care Accepting New Patients

 

October 1, 2020…UR St. James Primary Care is accepting new patients of all ages.  Located at 7309 Seneca Rd., Suite 109 in Hornell, the practice offers complete care for adults, newborns and children.

 

“Our team is comprised of physicians Rhonda Peterson, Adrian Ashdown and Joanne Nazareth, and advanced practitioners Kimberley Betker, Marietta Goodliff, Sharon Smith and Alicia McHale,” said Tammy Criss, practice manager.

 

As part of St. James Hospital, the group provides patients with a proactive approach to primary care.  UR Medicine was the first primary care center in the region to be Level 3 certified by the National Committee for Quality Assurance – the highest rating for this new model of care.

 

“We work proactively to help keep patients healthy, not just treat them once they become sick,” said Criss.  “Our providers are experts in helping patients manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and heart disease, to avoid complications and unnecessary trips to the emergency room.  They work closely with St. James Hospital and specialists at UR Medicine so patients can feel confident they will receive exceptional care for the whole family.”

 

In addition to providing excellent care, St. James Primary Care is supported by the area's most advanced medical records system.

 

“Our system tracks health issues for each patient so that your provider can remind you when you need preventive care, such as a mammogram or colonoscopy,” said Criss.  “This allows us to spend more time with patients, and ultimately have a more positive impact on their health.”

 

UR St. James Primary Care is open weekdays at 8am, with late appointments available on Tuesday and Thursday.  To inquire about becoming a new patient please call (607) 385-3700.

New York State changes the New York Forward Loan fund for businesses

 

NY State Police Blotter

 9/30/20 10pm- State Police arrested Jessie W. Proctor, 37, of Bolivar. He was charged with  criminal mischief. He was released on an appearance ticket for court. The charge stems from September 27th vandalism complaint in the Town of Bolivar.

Important notice to Village of Cuba water customers

From the Village of Cuba:

When our reservoir tank was last inspected, they told us that when the next inspection was due, we would need to totally drain the tank in order to replace the "cathodic protection system". (That is the system that keeps the inside of the tank in great shape.) So, this is the year that we need to get this work completed. We will begin to slowly drain the reservoir on Saturday October 3rd and Sunday October 4th. You may experience a decrease in water pressure on these two days. Once the reservoir is "offline" the well pump will get regular pressure (or close to) back to everyone until the work at the reservoir is complete and is ready to be put back in service. The work at the reservoir should be completed and the reservoir back "online" by Thursday October 8th at the latest.

DPW Superintendent Hall greatly appreciates everyone's patience during this time, and we will work just as quickly and efficiently as possible to get the work completed. If anyone should have any questions regarding this work, please feel free to call the DPW office at 585-968-2487. 

Wellsville Rotary calls off Election Day breakfast

 

Wyoming County COVID-19 update

 

Obituary: Earl L. Eccleston, 81, Tuscarora

Earl L. Eccleston, 81, of Bunker Hill Road, Tuscarora, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, September 29, 2020.

Born in Greene, NY on February 27, 1939, Earl was the son of the late Martin and Ellen Sprague Eccleston. He attended Addison schools.

On May 1, 1959, he and the former Dora C. “Dolly” Hazen were married at the First Presbyterian Church of Addison. Dolly preceded Earl in death on May 27, 2018.

As a young man Earl was employed by Ingersoll Rand Co. in Painted Post while at the same time he and Dolly operated a small grocery and gas station in Tuscarora. He later worked for Keuka Construction and the Town of Tuscarora Highway Department. Earl eventually found his way to A.L. Blades & Sons in Hornell where he worked for over 35 years as a truck driver, retiring at the age of 72.

Earl served as pit steward at Woodhull Raceway for over 40 years, never missing a race. Dolly worked along with him as a scorer. They were inducted into the Woodhull Raceway Hall of Fame for their contributions there. He was also a long-time member of the Tuscarora Fire Department where he had served as chief and most recently assistant chief under his son Gerry for many years. He never missed a call. If available, he would respond.

Earl raised beef cattle on his farm and enjoyed hunting with his family. The hunting was secondary to the time spent with his sons and grandsons on his hunts. He cherished that time together.

Earl is survived by his children and partners, Gerry and Tammy Eccleston, Earl Calvin Eccleston and Margie Pavlick, Dawn and Tim Vargeson and Michaela “Missy” and Doug Reed, all of Addison, 16 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, his brothers, Larry Eccleston and Al (Susan) Eccleston, his sister, Margie Eccleston, along with several nieces and nephews and his beloved dog, Gizzy.

Besides his wife Dolly and his parents, Earl was predeceased by his infant son, Leroy Eccleston in 1964 and his brother, Gary Eccleston.

Friends may call on Friday, October 2 from 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. at the H.P. Smith & Son Inc. Funeral Home, 1607 Main St. Woodhull, NY. Funeral services will be held there on Saturday at 11 a.m. with Rev. Troy Preston officiating.

Burial will follow in Addison Rural Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested for the Tuscarora Fire Department, 1167 Mack Road, Addison, NY 14801.  Current COVID-19 guidelines will be observed.  

Obituary: Harry P. Hardman, 90, Cuba

Harry P. Hardman: Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather

Harry P. Hardman, 90, of 5297 Maple Lane Road, Cuba, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at Olean General Hospital after a short illness.

Born on February 19, 1930, in Richburg, he was a son of Harry M. and Elga G. Paul Hardman.  On February 14, 1954, in the First Baptist Church, Cuba he married his wife of 66 years the former Esther M. Witter who survives.

Harry was a graduate of Richburg High School.  He then served in the United States Air Force from 1949-1953. 

He had been employed Market Basket in Cuba for 25 years as manager and head of maintenance and later went to work for Empire Cheese of Cuba and worked in the refrigeration and maintenance departments and retiring after ten years of service.

When his children were young, he was active in the Boy Scouts, Eagle Scouts and was Scout Leader for several years in Belfast and Cuba.  He was a 20 plus year member of the Cuba Fire Department and Belfast Fire Department.  He was also a member of the Cuba First Baptist Church, Allegany County Firemen’s Association and Cuba Grange 699.

For many years enjoyed the winter months with his wife in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and the summer months at Sunny Hill Campground in Bolivar.  He enjoyed golfing and camping. 

Surviving in addition to his wife Esther are two sons, David (Ruthanne) Hardman of Cuba and Dale Hardman of Cuba; a daughter Darla Hardman of Cuba; 2 Grandchildren Melissa (Paul) Patanella and Derrick Hardman, and great grandchildren Skylar, Olivia, and Jeremy; two sisters Shirley (Cleo) Brundage of Cuba and Norma (Oliver) Amesbury of Macedon, NY; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was predeceased by his parents.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 3, 2020 from 2-4 p.m. only.  Funeral Services will be private.  The Rev. Alexandra Freer, will officiate. Burial will be in Maple Lawn Cemetery, Bolivar, New York. Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Regina A. Blamire, 87, of Whitesville

An angel, Regina A. Blamire, 87, of Whitesville, NY, returned to her home in heaven on Tuesday, September 29, 2020. 

Born November 2, 1932, in Upton, MA, she was the daughter of Charles and Winona Waterman Noe. On May 15, 1954, in Upton, she married the love of her life, Gordon “Russ” Blamire, who predeceased her on July 4, 2011. 

Regina is survived by five children: Sherree (Mike) Brownell, Craig (Cyndi) Blamire, Jaimee Vallieres, Peggie Blamire, and Mary “Pickles” Bissett; eleven grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she will be reunited with her sons John Blamire and Evan Blamire; her two brothers, Charlie Noe and Billy Noe; and her granddaughter, Gina Billings. She also left behind countless others who loved her as their own mother. 

Regina, a/k/a Gina, Mom, Ma, Grandma, Gramma Gina, Reggie, and GiGi, was the light of our lives. Her strength and sense of humor kept all of us going when life got difficult. Her focus in life was always her family and community. When the kids were all grown, she took care of their kids and then her neighbors around town. She truly loved her life and friends in Whitesville. 

Friends may call at First United Methodist Church, 446 Main St., Whitesville, NY on Saturday, October 3, 2020 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., with a Memorial Service following at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Kim Smith will officiate. Burial will be in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Allegany County Office for the Aging, 6085 St. Rt. 19N, Belmont, NY 14813 for the benefit of the Town of Independence group where she attended and enjoyed gathering and visiting with her friends or to the Independence Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 309, Whitesville, NY 14897. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com. 

241 in COVID-19 quarantine in Allegany County

 

15 New Cases of COVID-19 in Steuben

BATH – The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification that 15 Steuben County residents tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total to 498 confirmed cases, 146 of which are currently active.  The individuals are residents of the:

·         City of Corning (6)

·         Town of Addison

·         Town of Bath

·         Town of Campbell

·         Town of Cameron (2)

·         Town of Canisteo

·         Town of Caton

·         Town of Rathbone

·         Village of Addison

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 investigations indicate:

·         Five individuals are residents of Corning Center

·         Four individuals are employees of Upstate Farms Cheese in Campbell

·         One individual is a student at the BOCES Bush Campus

Public Health worked with the appropriate school contacts, and the impacted staff and students who were found to have direct contact with the positive student at school or on the bus will be quarantined. 

An individual reported visited the following locations within the investigation timeframe, and the churches indicated they were following all protocols. 

·         9/20/20, 9/27/20 – Avoca Baptist Church

·         9/27/20 – Christian Life Baptist Church in Corning

“This round of COVID-19 spread appears to be more aggressive than what we witnessed in the spring,” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “The virus is spreading quickly and is reaching everyone from the very young to the very old.  The number of positives in hospitals is rising by the day.  We need everyone to take this very seriously so that there is a chance to slow the spread sooner rather than later.”

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.  

Steuben Reports 5 Deaths Related to COVID-19

BATH – The Steuben County Public Health Department received notification Wednesday of the deaths of five individuals who had previously tested positive for COVID-19.  This brings the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in Steuben County to 49.  The individuals were all residents of Corning Center and died between September 23 and September 30.  Two females aged 82 and 94 years old and three males aged 72, 78, and 80 years old passed.

“The spike in cases has had us very concerned about the potential for more deaths in Steuben County related to COVID-19,” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith.  “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family members of those lost at Corning Center.”           

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. 

For the latest Steuben County updates, visit Steuben County’s website at www.steubencony.org or social media pages: www.facebook.com/SCNYPublicHealth and www.instagram.com/SteubenPublicHealth.