Alfred University welcomes two new members to Board of Trustees

Alfred University announces the appointments of Chad Latz ’93 and Jon R. Tabor to the Board of Trustees, effective July 1. The Board approved their appointments at its May meeting and will welcome them as new members during its fall meeting in October.

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The University also recognizes longtime Board member Charlie Joyce HD ’22, who was elected to Life Trustees status at the May Board meeting. Joyce transitioned from active service on the Board to Life Trustee in 2023 after more than two decades of service.

Latz, who earned a B.F.A. from Alfred University in 1993, is a public relations professional with more than 25 years of experience in the marketing and communications industry. In June, he was appointed chief innovation officer at Burson, a leading global public relations and communications firm headquartered in New York City recently created through the merger of two top agencies BCW Global and Hill & Knowlton.

In his role at Burson, Latz identifies technology innovations that inspire new opportunities for engagement between stakeholders and brands. He is responsible for leading a team of AI-focused practitioners and partners across data, technology, and academia. Prior, Latz spent 15 years, from 2009-24 at public relations and communications agency BCW Global (formerly Cohn and Wolfe), serving as global president of the Digital Innovation Group. Before BCW Global, Latz was senior vice president of digital strategy and client service at Ketchum Public Relations from 1999-2009.

He continues his studio practice in upstate New York and has over decades has maintained active involvement with Alfred University and the Institute of Electronic Arts.

Latz will serve on the Board of Trustees Student Experience Committee and Marketing and Communications committees. He will be the keynote speaker at Alfred University’s 2024 Opening Convocation ceremonies on August 22.

Jon R. Tabor is the son of late former Alfred University Board of Trustees member Jon K. Tabor ’55 and Mary (Chilcoth Singleton) Tabor ’58. He graduated from Ohio State University, earning a bachelor's degree in marketing in 1979 and an MBA in 1981.

In 2009, Jon became president and CEO of Allied Mineral Products, Inc. (AMP)—a global producer and supplier of large refractory products which had previously been led by his father. Early in his leadership, Jon K. Tabor, Jon R. Tabor’s father, recruited fellow Alfred University graduate, John L. Turner ’64, to serve as his right-hand person at AMP. John Turner was with the firm for nearly four decades and was COO and president of AMP when he retired from the firm in 2009.

Jon R. Tabor had been with AMP for nineteen years at the time of his promotion to CEO and president in 2009, having served at the firm in various prior roles including as an executive vice president and general manager.

In 2017, when Jon K. Tabor took on the role of chairman emeritus, Jon R. Tabor assumed the role of chairman in addition to serving as president and CEO. Prior to AMP, Jon R. Tabor was a 10-year employee of Eli Lilly and Co., a worldwide producer of pharmaceutical and medical equipment.

Jon R. Tabor will serve on the Board of Trustees Audit, Finance, and Investment committees.

Charlie Joyce served on Alfred University Board of Trustees for 22 years, from 2001-23. During his tenure as a Trustee, Charlie served on the Executive, Finance, Strategic Planning (former Chair), Student Experience, Trusteeship, and Statutory Affairs (Chair) committees and was a member of a capital campaign.

In 1981, Joyce, who earned his undergraduate degree at Cornell University, and his father, Charles H. Joyce, acquired the company Otis-Eastern, headquartered in Wellsville, New York, and grew it into one of the largest pipeline contractors in the United States. Charlie Joyce served in various roles at Otis-Eastern, including as president, CEO, and chairman. The firm was sold to Artera in 2020.

Joyce served on Alfred University Board of Trustees from 2001-23. During his tenure as a trustee, Charlie served on the Executive, Finance, Strategic Planning (former chair), Student Experience, Trusteeship, and Statutory Affairs (Chair) committees and was a leading member of one of our University’s fundraising campaigns.

Joyce and Alfred University alumna Sherry Walton ’80, ’88 MS Ed., have been generous benefactors of Alfred University, providing funding for the Joyce & Walton Center, which opened in 2014, and the Joyce & Walton Strength and Conditioning Center, which opened in 2018. A generous commitment from Charlie and Sherry in 2018 helped provide support to attract Alfred University’s next vice president of Student Affairs; helped launch Alfred University’s new leadership minor; and underwrote the offering of the “LEAD 301: Improving Alfred University” course taught by the dean of the Inamori School of Engineering and the president of Alfred University.

Joyce joined with fellow trustee Marlin Miller ’54, HD ’89, HD ’19 to underwrite the hiring of a consulting firm to help Alfred University develop a residence life master plan, and, in 2018, he made a generous commitment toward the Saxon Hill project on Jericho Hill, which will enhance Alfred University’s athletic facilities. Construction on that project begins this summer.

In 2022, Alfred University conferred on Charlie the degree Doctor of Commerce, honoris causa, in recognition of his professional accomplishments and his service and generosity to Alfred University as well as the broader Allegany County community.

STEUBEN COUNTY RELEASES JUNE OVERDOSE DATA

BATH, NY – The Steuben County Public Health Department and partners are sharing updated overdose data for June 2024: 37 overdoses were reported, 1 fatality was reported, 3 fatalities are under investigation for potential overdose deaths, and 22 instances of Narcan administration were cited. 

“The percentage of Narcan administration for overdoses has risen in 2024 compared to previous years” said Public Health Director, Darlene Smith. “Steuben County and its partners are committed to providing free, accessible Narcan training in order to empower residents to prevent overdoses.”

 

In June, six of Steuben’s overdose records cited opioids as a suspected drug causing the overdose. Twenty-three overdose records did not note a specific substance or were not able to be accessed for a full review, and the remaining 8 records indicated another substance was suspected to be the cause of an overdose. Other reported substances included alcohol, prescription drugs, and others.

               

Narcan training is available at https://www.steubencountyny.gov/narcan or in-person training can be scheduled by calling Steuben Public Health at 607-664-2438 or reaching out to the Steuben Prevention Coalition’s Opioid Committee.

 

Local support is available. Steuben County Substance Abuse Services (SCASAS) offers outpatient services in Bath (607-664-2156), Corning (607-937-6201), and Hornell (607-324-2483) as well as after-hours services (607-937-7800). CASA Trinity in Hornell (607-282-5200) and Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital in Bath offer detox and inpatient services as well. Residents are also encouraged to call 211 for other local support.

 

For the latest Steuben County updates, visit Steuben County’s website at https://www.steubencountyny.gov/ or Public Health’s social media pages: www.facebook.com/SCNYPublicHealth and www.instagram.com/SteubenPublicHealth.

PennDOT Announces Bridge Deck Replacement on Route 1010 Structure in Potter County

PennDOT Announces Bridge Deck Replacement on Route 1010 Structure in Potter County

​Clearfield, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced a bridge replacement project on Route 1010 (Genesee Mills Road) in Bingham Township, Potter County, which will begin on Monday, August 12. Replacing the bridge deck, which carries 228 vehicles daily on average, will improve the structure's overall condition rating from fair to good.

Beginning August 12, a detour will be in place around the bridge, which spans Mundy Creek on Genesee Mills Road. The detour will utilize Route 1010, Route 1013 (Hickox/Ulysses Road), and Route 1011 (Bingham Centre Road).

Potter County Maintenance will complete this work, which includes replacing the bridge deck to improve safety and ride quality. PennDOT anticipates completion in early September.

Allegany County Press Release - Allegany Co Mourns Loss of Chuck Jessup

Statement Regarding the Loss of Charles “Chuck” Jessup

Allegany County mourns the loss of former Legislator Charles “Chuck” Jessup and wishes to express sincere condolences to the family and friends of Chuck. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chuck’s wife Linda and the Jessup family.

Earlier this year, Allegany County adopted a resolution recognizing and thanking Mr. Jessup for his extraordinary contributions to the betterment of Allegany County.

Chuck began his career in Allegany County in 2013 when he was appointed to fill the remainder of Doug Burdick’s term on the Allegany County Board of Legislators, and he continued to serve as a Legislator through 2017. Chuck’s contributions to Allegany County are extensive, including service as member and Chair of the Allegany County Planning Board, the Comprehensive Plan Committee and Implementation Group, the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency, the Southern Tier West Board of Directors, and the Allegany County Telecommunications Development Corporation.

In addition to his work with the County, Chuck operated Southern Tier Tax Data Service for 20 years and worked as Business Manager of Southern Tier Concrete for 44 years. Chuck also served on the Town of Alfred Planning Board in the early 1980s and the Alfred Town Board from 1985-1998 as Councilman, Deputy Supervisor, and Supervisor. He is a Life Member and Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Hornell, a Life Member of the Alfred Rod and Gun Club, a 30-year Trustee of the Alfred Rural Cemetery Association, and co-founder of the Sugar Hill Development Corporation of Alfred Station.

Chuck was an extraordinary public servant and engaged in many community organizations. He stands out as a role model that we can all look to for inspiration. Allegany County has lost a great friend and community member with the passing of Chuck Jessup.

ACCORD Announces Funding for New Business Plan Competition - $36,000 a Year in Prizes

 

ACCORD Announces Funding for New Business Plan Competition - $36,000 a Year in Prizes

Belmont, NY – ACCORD is thrilled to announce it has received funding from Empire State Development to implement a business plan competition. The competition aims to empower entrepreneurs by providing them with the resources and support needed to transform their concepts into successful ventures. Participants will compete for $36,000 in cash prizes in the Spring of 2025.

The competition is open to western New York businesses that successfully complete the 60 hour Entrepreneurial Assistance Center (EAC) business training course in the Fall 2024 or Spring 2025. The fall cohort is scheduled to start September 3, 2024, and will meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30p-8:30p in Belmont, New York. The business training course incorporates education, networking, and support to empower individuals, particularly those in marginalized groups, to navigate the business landscape. Building a strong network fosters valuable connections that can fuel business growth and valuable insights.

Eligible Businesses

a.       Be organized and licensed or registered in the State of New York;

b.       Business owner(s), owning more than 20% of the business, must be a resident in the State of New York;

c.       Be in substantial compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, codes and requirements;

d.       Not owe any federal, state or local taxes, or have an approved repayment, deferral plan, or agreement with appropriate federal, state, and local taxing authorities;

e.       Eligible Award Recipients may not have received or been awarded grants prizes of $1,000 or more from other contest or grant programs;

f.        An entrepreneur or Small Business owner is eligible for only one award per Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or Employer identification Number (EIN) under the Program;

g.       An Eligible Award Recipient is only eligible to receive one award for a Micro-business or Small Business; and

h.       The Eligible Award Recipient agrees to maintain the operations of the Small Business for which the grant was approved physically located in the State of New York for at least two years after receipt of the grant award, to the extent the business remains operational, and reports on the usages of grant award and sales or employment impacts.

For more information about the Business Plan Competition or to sign up for the fall EAC Business Training Course please contact Nicholas Baker at nbaker@accordcorp.org or 585-268-7605 extension 1711

Obituary: Charles “Chuck” O’Neil Jessup, 83, Alfred Station

Alfred Station - Charles O. Jessup age 83 of State Route 244, passed away peacefully on Sunday (August 4, 2024) at UR St James Hospital.

He was born in Emporium, PA on August 4, 1941 the son of Charles Jessup and Geraldine Smith Jessup, was a graduate of Cameron County High School in Emporium, PA, and had been in the National Guard for 8 years. He was retired from Southern Tier Concrete in Alfred Station where he had worked for over 44 years. In 1980 he was appointed to the Town of Alfred Planning Board and served in that capacity until his election to the Town Board in 1985. For the next 14 years filled the roles of Councilman, Deputy Supervisor and Supervisor. In 2013 he was appointed as an Allegany County District V Legislator a seat he subsequently won for an additional four-year term. In addition, he served as a member and chairman of both the Allegany County Planning Board and Comprehensive Plan Committee and Comprehensive Plan Implementation Group and was instrumental in drafting and adoption of the County’s first Comprehensive plan. He was also appointed to the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency, the Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board of Directors and the Allegany County Telecommunications Development Corporation Board of Directors. Chuck was also a life member of the Kiwanis Club of Hornell, a life member of the Alfred Rod and Gun Club, the NRA, a 30 year trustee of the Alfred Rural Cemetery Assoc. and cofounder of the Sugar Hill Development Corp., and was given the Reagan award in 2017 from the Allegany County Republican Committee. Chuck had also owned and operated his own Tax and Accounting business for 30+ years, and was a Notary Public.
He was predeceased by his parents, his son Patrick Jessup in 2010, his brother William Jessup, and his sister Georgia Barker.
He is survived by his wife Linda M. Bates Jessup whom he married on August 7, 1965, his daughter Nicki (David) Dodge of Almond, his son Bryan (Jenn) Jessup of Hornell, his daughter in law Lise, his grandchildren Christopher, Kimberly (Wayne), Justin, Riley, Christian, Collin, Mateo, Santi, and Elis, his 2 great grandchildren Xaiden, and Hailey.
The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday (August 8, 2024) from 4-6pm at the Bender-Brown& Powers Funeral Home 354 Canisteo Street in Hornell, where a small service will take place at 6:00pm. A Private burial will be at Alfred Rural Cemetery.
To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.
Memorial Contributions can be made to the Charity of The Donor’s Choice.

Obituary: Cory J. Eck, 41, of Wellsville UPDATED WITH SERVICE DETAIL

 

Cory J. ECK, 41, of Wellsville, NY, died Thursday, August 1, 2024 in his home.  Born February 24, 1983, in Olean, he was the son of Michael T. and Barbara A. Bellamy Eck.  A graduate of Scio High School, he was employed by Michael A. Roeske, Land Surveyor.  He also detailed cars and did yard work.  Cory enjoyed riding four-wheelers and dirt bikes.  Surviving are: a son, Lennox; two siblings, Christina (Anson) Beckwith of Bolivar and Clayton (Beth) Eck of Wellsville; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was predeceased by his parents.  Friends may call at OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 6:00 PM.  Rev. Carl Kemp will officiate.  Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio.  Cremation was at Olney-Foust Private Crematory.  Memorials may be made to ACASA, 3084 Trapping Brook Road, Wellsville, NY 14895 or SPCA serving Allegany County, P.O. Box 181, Belmont, NY 14813.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Diane L. Glintz, 79, Bolivar

Bolivar – Diane L. Glintz, of 79 Kincaid St., passed away on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo following a brief illness.

Born March 1945, she was the daughter of Herbert H. and Velma (Smith) Rhoades of Bolivar who preceded her in death in 1986 and 2005 respectively. 

Diane married Richard “Pete” Glintz in August 1969.  Pete preceded Diane in death in February of 2005.  Diane is survived by two sons, Michael Glintz of Morristown, NJ, and Steven Glintz of Alexandria, VA, and a sister, Janice Rhoades of Spencerport, NY.

Diane graduated from Bolivar Central School with a Regents Diploma in 1963, a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the State University of NY at Geneseo in 1967, and a Master of Science degree in Education from St. Bonaventure University in 1974.

Diane began her career as a secondary Spanish teacher, but found her calling as a 4th, 5th, and 6th grade teacher at Bolivar Central School and Bolivar-Richburg Central School from 1967 – 2000.  For eleven years, Diane found herself stepping into the roles of President and Vice President of the Teachers Association where she led and served on the negotiating team. 

Following her tenure as an elementary school teacher, she taught future teachers as an Adjunct Professor of Education at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, NY, from 2001 – 2013.  Over the years former students, at every level, contacted her to tell her how she had made a positive difference in their lives. She treasured their words.

Most recently, Diane returned to Bolivar-Richburg Central school where she was a member of the Bolivar Alumni Association Scholarship committee, and served on the newly formed BR Alumni Association.  She loved helping keep track BCS and B-RCS of graduates for the database and was always proud of the school.

Diane knew how to love with all her heart, especially her sons.  They were the passion and pride of her life.  She always considered her role in raising them to be her greatest success, telling anyone who would listen about their many accomplishments and the good men they are today.

Diane enjoyed golfing, reading, painting, and knitting.  She loved and was a master of making sweaters, quilts, baby blankets, and gifts for others.

Diane, ever the people magnet, was happiest when surrounded by family and friends.  She was the glue of her family and the one in her high school senior class that others contacted for news.  Even strangers were magically drawn to her.  These social aspects were what Diane loved most.  Family gatherings and when friends would stop on her patio to discuss the latest events. They could always count on a story or quip delivered with her wonderfully developed sense of humor.  She made people laugh. 

Friends will be received at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service Inc. 554 S. Main St., Bolivar, New York, 14715, on Friday, August 9, 2024 from Noon until 2 PM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 2 PM. The Rev. David Herne will officiate.

Burial will be in Maple Lawn Cemetery in Bolivar New York

Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com

Memorials to – Bolivar Fire Department - Care of Ambulance Fund, Bolivar Free Library, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or charity of donor’s choice.

Obituary: Edwin Lee Stratton, age 67

Edwin Lee Stratton died at the age of 67 at ECMC in Buffalo, NY on July 30, 2024, of an extended illness. He was born in North Hornell, NY on November 13, 1956 to Edwin Luther Stratton and Phyllis Irene (Brott) Stratton.

He graduated from Pioneer Central school in 1972 and while living in Franklinville, NY was employed at Motorola Corp. as an assembler for several years. He then worked as a photographer for a local Arcade Times Paper. Then he worked for several local businesses in the Arcade/Bliss area. He later graduated from Alfred State College with an Associates degree in Psychology. He enjoyed the art of photography and all things cinematic.
The family would also like to thank the staff at Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo for the excellent care given to Eddie while he was there.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edwin Luther and Phyllis Stratton and an infant sister Rosemary. He is survived by his daughters Brandi and Amy of Georgia, brothers John (Pam Foster) Stratton of Wellsville, NY, Scott (Jessica) Stratton of Hornell, NY, Larry Jay Stratton of Canisteo,NY, Timothy Stratton,Tracy Stratton. Sisters Bonnie Sue (Jefferson) Bacon of Canisteo, NY, Melody (Michael) Kopetz of Virginia, Shirley (Robert) Metzger of Fredonia, NY, Rebecca( Stanley Dubois) Griffith of Dansville, NY, Mary Hayton of Belmont ,NY, and Tina Vogt of Corning, NY. Several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
Gerald R Brown, Director at Brown & Powers Funeral Home of Canisteo is assisting the family with arrangements.

Obituary: Shirleyan C. McINROY, 78, of Galeton, PA

Shirleyan C. McINROY, 78, of Galeton, PA, died Saturday, August 3, 2024 in her home.  Born August 14, 1945, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Walter O. and Meta E. Williams Zeaman.  She was married to Stephen McInroy III, who predeceased her on April 1, 2001.  She was employed by Galeton Production, Plaza Café, and was the manager of the Sweet Shop.  Surviving are: three sons, Stephen (Beda “Lee” Oyler) McInroy IV of Germania, Shane (Bobbie Jo Bliss) McInroy of Timberville, VA, and Stacy (Misty) McInroy of Galeton; seven grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a sister, Anita Rae Louden.  A gathering to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held Saturday, August 17, 2024, with time and location to be announced.  Burial will be in West Hill Cemetery, Galeton.  Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Memorials may be made to Gale Hose Ambulance, Galeton, PA 16922.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

New York State Police Blotter

New York State Police Blotter

8/3/24 1:39 a.m.- After investigating a domestic-family offense call in the town of Caneadea, state police arrested Gregory Ferry, 42, of Lancaster. He was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. A court appearance is pending.

Cuba: Fundraiser for “A Walk to End Alzheimer’s

 

Man jailed in Potter County on escape charge

Man jailed in Potter County on escape charge

Coudersport police report the arrest of Michael W. Roberto, 41, of Emporium, PA. He was charged by officer William R. Wenzel with escape and default in required appearance. He was remanded to Potter County Jail without bail. According to District Magistrate Bryan Phelps, the man “failed to appear for prior sentencing and committal.” He was deemed a flight risk. On May 5th, Roberto pleaded guilty to driving while his license was suspended or revoked after being suspended or revoked for a DUI and/or refusing the breathalyzer test. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for August 6th. 

Vacant Rental Improvement Program - Are you a landlord with a vacant property in Allegany County?

From: Allegany County Community Opportunities and Rural Development, Inc.

Are you a landlord with a vacant property in Allegany County?

Belmont, NY – July 23, 2024 – ACCORD is preparing an application for the New York State’s Vacant Rental Improvement Program (“V-RIP”) and would like to hear from interested landlords in Allegany County.

The V-RIP program is funded by the State of New York and aims to help owners of rental properties bring vacant units and spaces in small-scale properties back into productive use to create safe, quality, and affordable long-term rental units for low- and moderate-income renters outside of New York City.

Eligible Activities: Funding may be used to improve and rehabilitate vacant housing units and other vacant spaces, including commercial spaces, that are currently uninhabitable or unmarketable into safe, quality, and affordable rental units. These repairs and improvements may include health and safety improvements, correction of code violations and/or updating spaces to meet residential standards, accessibility modifications, environmental remediation, and other repairs determined by the local program administrator as necessary to rehabilitate vacant units. 

Ownership: Applicant must be the legal owner of one of the following: 1-5 unit residential property, mixed-use building with up to five (5) housing units, or other building that will be converted to one of the above.

Prioritization will be given to small, local, and responsible owners. Only vacant units are eligible for assistance.

Compliance Period: A 10-year Regulatory Period will be required during which the owner must be willing to execute an agreement and rental covenant on assisted units that will subject units to rent limits and other requirements.

Funding: Standard V-RIP, $50,000 per unit and tenant household income must be 80% of the Area Median Income or lower. Enhanced V-RIP, $75,000 per unit and tenant household income must be 60% of the Area Median Income or lower.

Interested Landlords: To bring this resource to Allegany County we need landlords to complete the survey to show we have a need. If interested, please complete the below survey.

https://forms.office.com/r/12ksihWE4e

The application is due in October and awards will be announced around the end of the year. If funded, we will be complete a more detailed application.

For more information, please contact Jeff Stager at 585-268-7605 x1125 or jstager@accordcorp.org

New York State Police Blotter

New York State Police Blotter

8/1/24 2:28 p.m.- Following an incident on July 19^th in the town of Willing, state police arrested Thomas P. Lopez, 72, of Wellsville. He was charged by troopers with second-degree reckless endangerment, a class A misdemeanor. An investigation continues and Lopez will appear in court at a later date.

8/1/24 7:54 p.m.- State Police arrested Thomas J. Humphrey, 32, of Belfast. He was charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle: Temporary Custody-no consent. According to the blotter, he was held-no bail.

Former Addison Official to Be Sentenced to Prison-First Public Pension Forfeiture Action in New York State

 NYS Comptroller DiNapoli, Steuben County District Attorney Baker, and NYS Police: Former Addison Official to Be Sentenced to Prison and Will Forfeit State Pension After Million Dollar Public Corruption Conviction

First Public Pension Forfeiture Action in New York State

A former clerk-treasurer of the Village of Addison in Steuben County will be sentenced to serve three-to-nine years in state prison, pay full restitution of $1.1 million, and forfeit her public pension after being convicted of one felony count of Corrupting the Government, New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker, and the New York State Police announced Thursday.

Ursula Stone pled guilty on May 29, 2024, admitting that she abused her position to steal more than $1 million over her 19-year career. Stone’s forfeiture of her state pension as a result of her public corruption conviction will be the first pension forfeiture in New York state.

“Public service is a privilege and a duty. Those who abuse their positions and betray their communities undermine the integrity of government and risk losing their right to a public pension,” DiNapoli said. “For nearly two decades, Ursula Stone took advantage of her position and the trust of Addison residents to shamelessly steal over a million dollars. Thanks to the work of my office, District Attorney Baker, and the State Police, her crimes were uncovered, and she has been brought to justice. This case should send a clear message that those who dishonor their public office will face serious consequences.”

“The magnitude, scope, duration and pervasiveness of this criminal activity is absolutely stunning,” Baker said. “For nearly two decades, Ursula Stone abused the trust of the people of the Village of Addison, using her position to steal from their taxes, their schools and their community. The impact of her criminal acts on this community has been and will be felt for decades. But for the dedication and expertise of the New York State Comptroller’s Office it might still be going on unnoticed. This sentence sends a clear message to this defendant about the damage she caused and to anyone else who might consider such crimes about the high price that will be paid. I want to thank the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and the members of his office for the incredible effort they put forth in identifying and prosecuting this crime. Their hard work and cooperation with the New York State Police and my office put us in a place to bring Ursula Stone to justice, and will bring this sad chapter for the village to a close.”

“The sentencing of Ms. Stone demonstrates the vital collaborative work of our law enforcement partners focused on the same goal; holding those who break our laws accountable,” New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said. “The victims in this case are the people of New York who put their trust in this former Village of Addison employee. I commend our State Police members, our partners at the State Comptroller’s Office and Steuben County District Attorney’s Office for their commitment to investigating those who prey on the unsuspecting public for their own gain.”

Under a 2011 law and a 2018 New York state Constitutional Amendment, certain public officials convicted of crimes related to their office may be subject to pension forfeiture. It is the responsibility of the prosecuting attorney with jurisdiction over the crime to commence an action for pension forfeiture and show the defendant knowingly and intentionally committed a crime related to public office. Here, Stone has admitted to her crimes and agreed to pension forfeiture as part of her sentence.

Stone, who retired in March 2023, will forgo her monthly pension payment of $1,920.

DiNapoli’s office began an audit of the village in 2022 and found the 56-year-old Stone had been running the financial operations of the village with no oversight. She prepared payroll, maintained manual leave records, and processed health insurance buyouts and unused leave payments with no review or approval from the mayor or any other village official.

Upon subsequent investigation, DiNapoli’s office also discovered that checks from the Addison Central School District, payable to the village, were not deposited into the village’s accounts. A joint investigation by DiNapoli’s office, the New York State Police, and the Steuben County District Attorney’s Office determined that Stone stole dozens of such checks payable to the village, which she converted to certified bank checks and cashed.

Additionally, investigators found Stone gave herself unauthorized pay raises, took time off without deducting it from her leave credits and wrote herself checks for unauthorized health insurance buyouts from village funds. Stone had also been cashing out unused vacation time since 2004, an option that was only available to employees who resigned or retired.

Before submitting her resignation letter, she wrote herself a final check for $26,613, which was not authorized by the board. The board stopped payment on the check before she was able to cash it. In total, investigators say she stole $1,171,362.

Stone is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 7 by Judge Chauncey Watches of Steuben County Court and her pension forfeiture ordered by Judge Patrick F. McAllister in Steuben County Supreme Court.

Obituary: David M. Kemmer, 81, Andover

David M. Kemmer, age 81, of Andover passed away at home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 11, 1943, in Baltimore Maryland to the late John W. and Louise [Smith] Kemmer.

David was a long-time resident of Pasadena, Maryland, who moved to Andover in 2000. He served in the US Army from 1957 until 1961 and had a been a member of the American Legion Post and the Moose Lodge both in the Pasadena Area. He enjoyed hunting, working in his garden, Playing Hoyle board and card games on his computer, NASCAR and especially laughing.

He is survived by his 4 children, Patricia Kemmer, Pamela [Mike] Jenkins, David [Debbie] Kemmer and Penny [Rick] Fleischmann; 6 stepchildren, Laura Victor, Freda [Becky Spencer] Cavallaro, Toni Vogel, Barbara Cavallaro-Howard, Kathleen [Rick] Whitesell and Robert Roach Jr.; several grand and great grandchildren; a brother, Roy Kemmer; several nieces and nephews; and his first wife, Paula Walls Kemmer.

He was predeceased by wife Barbara A. Shelley on February 19, 2017; 2 brothers, John and Michael Kemmer; 2 sisters, Lois McGee and Jean Wolff; 2 grandsons, Jason Canter and Timothy McClung; a step great grandson, Nicholas Burge.

At David’s request there will be no services. Please consider memorial contributions to the charity of the donor’s choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com. 

Obituary: Leon E. Cline, 91, Alma

Alma, NY – Leon E. Cline, 91, of County Road 18, passed away at home on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born March 13, 1933, in Wellsville, the son of the late Leon S. and Esther M. (Willard) Cline.

Leon was raised in Allegany County and attended school in a Wellsville area one-room-schoolhouse. He was eventually awarded an honorary GED from the school district.  With special permission from his parents, he enlisted at 16 with the United States Army and deployed at 17 to Korea with the 32nd infantry, proudly serving from 1950 to 1953. After his honorable discharge he travelled the United States, including spending time in Florida as a Tugboat Operator and in Arizona, working at his aunt’s bar. He was initially married to Ruth Ann Perry, after they parted ways, he was with Louise Pascale-Shively, from whom he gained four bonus children and had his daughter, he subsequently married Theresa Cline in July of 1988 in Trenton, Florida; though separated, he remained close with each of them. He returned to Allegany County for a funeral and stayed for his family and employment opportunities. He found his career at Fibercel Corporation of Portville, where he worked for over 30 years, retiring on his birthday in 1997. He was a member of Alma Methodist Church, Alma Rod & Gun Club, Alma Volunteer Fire Department for almost 30 years, and Wellsville American Legion Post 702, additionally, he used to play guitar for area nursing homes. He rode Harley-Davidson motorcycles for over 50 years, loved his side-by-side, his dog Elmo, playing crosswords, was an outdoorsman who could fix anything mechanical and enjoyed mowing his yard. For years, he would fix bikes for the neighborhood kids and sell them ones he would refurbish. His son, Harley, stayed at home to take care of him and has been by his side throughout the end of his life.

He is survived by: his children, Glenda Cline of Olean, Harley (Erienne) Cline of Alma, Dan (Becky) Pascale of Cuba, Holy Pascale of Franklinville, and Chris (Lynn) Roberts of Eldred, PA; two grandchildren, Alexis (Sean) Withey-Scott and Payton White; a great-grandson, Sebastian Scott; close cousin, Kirby Cline; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by, son, Vince Pascale, and siblings, Jim Cline and Betty Jean Halliday.

Friends, family, and acquaintances are invited to attend a Graveside Service on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., with full military honors, at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Hinsdale. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County, 5440 NY-19, Belmont, NY 14813. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Allegany County Sheriff Monthly Report

 

Monthly Report: Allegany County OES & Fire Service

 

Felony, other crimes dip in July in Allegany County

 

Environmental Conservation Police on Patrol - Rattlesnake Rescue

Rattlesnake Rescue – Wyoming County

On July 20, ECOs Powers and Scheer received a call from a New York State Park Ranger about an injured timber rattlesnake near a walking trail at Letchworth State Park in the town of Castile. ECO Powers confirmed the identity of the snake through pictures and quickly coordinated with the Ranger to keep curious visitors away from the snake. The ECOs responded to Letchworth, secured the snake, and transported it to Cornell University’s veterinary hospital for treatment. Experts believe the snake was run over by a motor vehicle. 

Timber rattlesnakes are venomous pit vipers, native to New York State. They are considered a threatened species and are protected by State law. Timber rattlesnakes seldom display aggression unless defending themselves. The public is reminded to leave the snakes alone and observe from a safe distance. 

SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT REACHED WITH COMMUNITY BANK INVOLVING ALLEGED VIOLATIONS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

BUFFALO, NY – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has reached a settlement with Community Bank, N.A. (CBNA) to resolve two allegations that customers at CBNA’s Orchard Park, NY, branch location were denied American Sign Language interpreters for complex banking services, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The complainants, who are deaf and use ASL as a primary means of communication, were both customers at CBNA in connection with residential real estate purchases. Each complainant separately requested an ASL interpreter to assist with the closing of their transaction. The first request was made in January 2021; the second request was made in October 2023. In response to the January 2021 request, CBNA offered to pay one-half of the cost for an ASL interpreter. In response to the October 2023 request, CBNA refused to pay any of the cost for an ASL interpreter. Both complainants, who obtained interpreter services without assistance from CBNA, were frustrated and stressed by the efforts to obtain communication access in ASL.

Under the settlement, CBNA will not discriminate against or deny services to any individual on the basis of disability, including individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. CBNA has also agreed to develop and prominently post an ADA Effective Communications Policy at each branch location and on its website so that it can be easily read by members of the public. CBNA will also train all customer-facing employees on the Effective Communications Policy and pay each complainant $1,000 as compensation for harm.

CBNA also agreed that: CBNA will not retaliate against any person involved in this matter; CBNA will furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, when necessary to ensure effective communication with individuals with disabilities; CBNA will provide timely responses to requests for auxiliary aids and services; and CBNA will not require an individual with a disability to bring another individual to interpret for him or her.

The Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA seek equal opportunity and dignity in all aspects of life, including access to effective communications for people with disabilities. 

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at  (716) 843-5700 or file a complaint with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division at: https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/. Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TDD).

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. B. Bobseine, Civil Rights Coordinator in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Buffalo, New York.

Fun event planned for American Legion Post in Wellsville

 

Wellsville: Busy month ahead at Dyke Street Engine Company

Tractor Safety Certification Training & Contests

BELMONT, NEW YORK – Tractor Safety Certification Training & Contests

Lynn Bliven, Agriculture & Natural Resources Issue Leader

Allegany County 4-H and FFA sponsored a Tractor and Machinery Safety Certification Training in June. Training was geared toward youth ages 14-15 seeking work on a farm. This certification is required to legally enable their employment on non-family-owned farms. While the certification is not required for youth working on their family farm, many farm owners seek out the training for their children calling the class a valuable educational experience. As one farmer put it, “maybe a busy working dad isn’t the best one to cover safety training.”

Special thanks to Cuba-Rushford School for hosting part of the program and for providing tractors for students to use during the training. To Genesee Valley, Cuba Rushford, and Fillmore School Districts for support through their FFA programs; providing instruction from teachers Carolyn Wright, Carly Santangelo and Sara Haggerty. Thanks as well to Lynn Bliven, CCE Allegany County for facilitating and teaching during the training.

We were also fortunate to have Jim Carrabba from the New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health (NYCAMH) provide demonstrations on the importance of safe operating practices and personal protective equipment. Visual presentations are often more impactful in enforcing how quickly an accident can occur, far more rapidly than humans can respond.

This year we had 10 candidates complete the training. They were then eligible to enter the Tractor Operators’ contest at the Allegany County Fair on Tuesday, July 20th along youth certified in prior years. First place senior at the county level went to Jim Eshelman, 1st place junior was awarded Wyatt Tyler.

Those successfully competing at county level were able to move on to the statewide contest on July 24th at the Genesee County Fairgrounds in Batavia. We had 3 youth choosing to participate in the statewide Tractor Driving Contest. Shane Ploetz was 1st in juniors and high overall for the contest. Mason Findley placed 8th and Conner Armison 9th in the junior division. Contestants are judged on driving a 2-wheel and 4-wheel implement through a course including backing up. Each of these events is timed. They also are tested on general knowledge of tractor safety and identification of tractor parts. The participant with the lowest score, least penalty points, wins the contest. 

Tractor Safety Certification Training 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 585-268-7644 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/allegany. Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Wellsville Police Blotter

Date: Wednesday July 31, 2024 

Wellsville Police arrested Rebecca L. Vancise, age 26 of Wellsville, charging her with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 1^st (Class C Felony) and Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor).  The charges stem from an incident that took place at 7 Eleven on July 19^th.  Vancise was processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Vancise is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

 

Wellsville Police arrested Kelley A. Chase, age 35 of Wellsville, charging her with Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor).  The charge stems from an incident at Walgreens on July 20^th.  Chase was processed and transported to the Allegany County Jail pending arraignment in CAP Court.  Chase is due to appear in Wellsville Village Court at a later date.

DiNapoli: Local Sales Tax Collections Up 2.2% in Second Quarter...but

But...Allegany County had the steepest decline at -10.1%

Local government sales tax collections totaled $5.83 billion in the second calendar quarter (April-June) of 2024, an increase of 2.2%, or $127 million, compared to the same quarter last year, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. While this growth was largely driven by New York City, all other regions of the state also saw increases.

“Growth in local sales tax collections has moderated, as both personal consumption and inflation cooled through the second quarter,” DiNapoli said. “New York City was again the largest single contributor to local sales tax growth, and its moderate increase in collections reflects in part a tourism industry that continues to improve.”

Local sales tax growth in the second quarter was slightly stronger than the 1.6% increase seen in the first quarter, still lagging growth rates realized after the first quarter in 2021. However, it was not unusual to see collections increase around (or under) 2%, year over year, in the decade before the pandemic.

In the second quarter of 2024, New York City saw a 3.3%, or $82.4 million, increase in collections, while the counties and cities in the rest of the state, in aggregate, experienced 1.4% growth, year over year. On a regional basis, the North Country, Mohawk Valley, and the Capital District had the highest quarterly growth rates at 6.6%, 4.4%, and 3.5% respectively. Long Island and Mid-Hudson were both nearly flat, at 0.1% growth each.

Over 68% (39 of 57) of counties saw an increase in collections in the quarter, led by St. Lawrence County at 22.5%, and followed by the counties of Livingston (18.5%), Montgomery (12.6%), and Schuyler (11.7%). Allegany County had the steepest decline at -10.1%, followed by the counties of Tioga (-6.7%), Putnam (-6.2%), and Yates (-6.1%).

A majority of cities (13 of 18) outside of New York City that impose their own sales tax experienced year-over-year growth in the second quarter. Ogdensburg had the strongest increase at 17.5%, followed by Johnstown (13.5%) and Saratoga Springs (9.8%). Of the five cities with declines, Salamanca experienced the steepest drop at -14.9%, followed by Mt. Vernon (-14.1%), and Oneida (-2.9%).

Year to date, statewide local sales tax collections are up 1.9%, or nearly $215 million, over the January-June period of 2023.