NY Attorney General to recuse office from prison death

Public Statement:

“Earlier today, after much consideration, research, and review, my office decided to recuse itself from the investigation of the correction officers involved in the events preceding the death of Mr. Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. 

  

“This decision is not one that was made lightly, but we believe this is the best course of action to protect the integrity of the investigation, and to ensure accountability and justice for Mr. Brooks, his family, friends, loved ones, and for all New Yorkers. 

  

“My office’s Division of State Counsel, by law, represents state agencies in legal matters, including the Department of Corrections and correction officers. 

 

“My Office of Special Investigation investigates matters where an officer of the law may have caused the death of a civilian. 

  

“As part of our Office of Special Investigation cases, we do internal conflicts checks.  

  

“After obtaining video and identifying the officers involved in the incident, we conducted this standard check.  

  

“Four of the correction officers under investigation in the Robert Brooks matter are currently defendants in other matters and are being represented by lawyers in the Office of the Attorney General.  

  

“While we are confident in the firewalls set up between the Division of State Counsel and the Office of Special Investigation, even the possibility or mere appearance of a conflict could tie up a potential prosecution in lengthy legal challenges or get a potential prosecution outright dismissed. 

  

“And I will not allow justice to be delayed or denied because of a conflict.  

  

“Earlier today, we filed papers in Onondaga County Supreme Court under County Law Section 701 to appoint Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick as a special prosecutor in this matter. 

  

“When a prosecutor is unable to take a case, County Law Section 701 allows for the appointment of a district attorney in the same judicial department. 

  

“District Attorney Fitzpatrick has served Onondaga County for over 30 years. His office is well resourced to handle this complex and large investigation, and I thank him for taking on this case.  

  

“Additionally, my office’s Division of State Counsel will not represent the Department of Corrections and/or its officers in this investigation. 

  

“Again, this decision was made with the utmost respect for the integrity of this investigation, and we will ensure that there will not be any delays. 

  

“My Office of Special Investigation will hand over all records to the District Attorney’s office immediately. 

  

“My office has spoken with representatives of Mr. Brooks’ family to explain this decision. And I want to take this opportunity again to express my sincerest condolences to them during this unimaginable, difficult time. 

  

“It is critically important that justice is served. This decision ensures that it will be.” 

National Weather Service Public Info Statement

 National Weather Service Buffalo NY

929 AM EST Thu Jan 2 2025

...24 HOUR SNOWFALL REPORTS...

Location                     Amount    Time/Date       Provider

...New York...

...Allegany County...
Rushford                     6.3 in    0615 AM 01/02   COOP
Whitesville 1N               4.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Wellsville 2.4 ENE           4.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Alfred                       3.0 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP

...Cattaraugus County...
Cattaraugus 3W               8.1 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Franklinville 0.5 NNE        7.8 in    0710 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Allegany State Park          5.5 in    0825 AM 01/02   COOP
Randolph 1.1 ENE             5.0 in    0730 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Ischua 0.4 SSE               5.0 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Olean                        4.7 in    0730 AM 01/02   COOP

...Chautauqua County...
Cassadaga                    7.1 in    0600 AM 01/02   Trained Spotter
Mayville 0.2 ESE             5.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Kennedy 2.6 SE               5.4 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Dewittville 1.0 SSE          4.0 in    0600 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Dunkirk 1S                    T in     0700 AM 01/02   COOP

...Erie County...
1 WNW Springville            7.0 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Springville 5NE              6.7 in    0730 AM 01/02   COOP
Boston 2.5 NE                5.8 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Glenwood 1.0 SE              5.0 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
3 NE Holland                 5.0 in    0530 AM 01/02   Trained Spotter
Sardinia                     4.8 in    0645 AM 01/02   Trained Spotter
Glenwood 1.5 SE              4.5 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
East Aurora 2.7 SSE          2.8 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Wales                        2.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Clarence Center 0.2 ESE      1.3 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Clarence Center 0.9 N        0.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
East Aurora 0.1 ENE          0.4 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Tonawanda 1.5 NNE            0.3 in    0746 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
East Aurora 3.4 NNE          0.3 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Tonawanda 3.1 NE             0.3 in    0445 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Buffalo Airport              0.2 in    0700 AM 01/02   Official NWS Obs
Kenmore 0.3 ESE              0.2 in    0640 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Kenmore 0.8 NW               0.1 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Cheektowaga 2.4 NW            T in     0745 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Hamburg 2.0 N                 T in     0744 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Buffalo 3.7 SE                T in     0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Hamburg 0.4 WSW               T in     0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
West Seneca                   T in     0340 AM 01/02   COOP

...Genesee County...
Batavia 3.4 WSW              1.0 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Alexander 2.7 WNW            0.9 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Le Roy 1E                    0.7 in    0800 AM 01/02   COOP
2 E Stafford                 0.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   Trained Spotter
Stafford 1.8 NE              0.4 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Jefferson County...
West Carthage 0.3 ENE        1.0 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Watertown 0.9 SSW            0.2 in    0645 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Lewis County...
Constableville 1.2 NW        5.5 in    0500 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Highmarket 2W                4.2 in    0600 AM 01/02   COOP
Lowville                     2.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Glenfield 4.1 NNE            1.0 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Livingston County...
Dansville 3.6 WSW            2.7 in    0600 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Dansville                    0.5 in    0800 AM 01/02   COOP
Avon                         0.2 in    0800 AM 01/02   COOP

...Monroe County...
Honeoye Falls                0.6 in    0800 AM 01/02   Public
Rochester Airport            0.2 in    0700 AM 01/02   Official NWS Obs
2 WNW Hilton                 0.2 in    0700 AM 01/02   Trained Spotter
Honeoye Falls 1.7 NE         0.1 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Rochester 5.7 W               T in     0900 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Rochester 5.0 WNW             T in     0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Fairport 0.9 W                T in     0640 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Niagara County...
North Tonawanda              0.7 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Sanborn 4NE                  0.5 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Pendleton 1NE                0.4 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Lockport                     0.4 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Niagara Falls                0.4 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Lockport 2.8 WNW             0.3 in    0814 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Lockport 0.8 NE              0.2 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Ontario County...
West Bloomfield 1S           0.6 in    0900 AM 01/02   COOP
Canandaigua 4.6 S            0.4 in    0815 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Canandaigua 2.6 S            0.1 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Orleans County...
Medina 0.4 WNW               0.2 in    0800 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Medina                       0.2 in    0800 AM 01/02   COOP
Lakeside                      T in     0700 AM 01/02   COOP

...Oswego County...
West Monroe 1.6 NNE          0.8 in    0745 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Mexico 2SW                   0.2 in    0600 AM 01/02   COOP
Lacona 3.6 SSE                T in     0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Wayne County...
Palmyra 1.6 NW                T in     0750 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Macedon 2.6 ESE               T in     0654 AM 01/02   COCORAHS

...Wyoming County...
Warsaw 6SW                   4.8 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Arcade 0.8 WNW               4.7 in    0700 AM 01/02   COCORAHS
Warsaw 4W                    4.3 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Silver Springs 3N            2.2 in    0700 AM 01/02   COOP
Attica 7SW                   2.2 in    0600 AM 01/02   COOP

Allegany County Board Chairman Delivers 2024 Recap

 

Allegany County Board Chairman Delivers 2024 Recap

 

On January 2, 2024, newly reappointed Allegany County Legislative Chairman W. Brooke Harris provided the Chairman’s annual “State of the County” address:

 

“Good Morning.

 

I’d like to thank my fellow Board members for their support today. The work of the Chair is collaborative, and I appreciate everyone’s guidance and encouragement as I continue to grow into the role.

 

It’s my privilege to speak briefly with you today about the state of Allegany County. As I’m sure those in attendance would agree, 2024 was one of the busiest years we’ve had in recent memory.

 

In development, the County has vigorously supported our new Office of Economic Development and the establishment of an independent Economic Development Corporation. Through those efforts, we’re already reaping benefits in the attraction of new business opportunities both small and large, and improved support of our existing small businesses, educational institutions, and large commercial and industrial partners. Lots of work to be done, but I know that this Board is taking the right steps to create a sustainable, vibrant, pro-business climate in Allegany County.

 

In Emergency Services, the Board has successfully restructured the Office of Emergency Management through strategic hires and the adoption of the local law creating a Director of Emergency Management. Further, the 2025 County budget reflects the largest-ever financial commitment to our County’s irreplaceable volunteer agencies. It’s the Board’s hope that these investments, including expanded training opportunities and reimbursements, equipment purchases, and technical support will continue to encourage recruitment and retention in the volunteer ranks.

 

I also want to thank the Board for having the political courage to act in the best interests of public safety through our contractual relationship with Medical Transport Services. Not only is a robust EMS system critical to ensuring the safety of County residents, but it is also a prerequisite to maintaining our quality of life and attracting new residents and businesses to Allegany County.

 

I want to thank our administration for their leadership and commitment to securing outside funding this year. The amount of work and time committed to this effort has been far greater than in years past. Because of this, Allegany County was recently awarded millions of dollars in competitive state and federal grants across multiple project areas including infrastructure expansion and improvement, economic development, housing, and outdoor recreation.

 

There are challenges ahead. With big ideas and big changes come big expenses. It will be the job of this Board in the coming year to do the difficult work of prioritizing these projects and existing services, to judiciously strategize their funding, and ensure that we continue to operate efficiently and with as little burden to taxpayers as possible. I’m confident in the ability of this Board to accomplish that goal, and I look forward to sharing the work with you all.

 

Finally, I’d like to recognize the dedicated employees of Allegany County, who work day-in and day-out to provide vital services and support to County residents. The Board wants to thank you for your professionalism and commitment and wishes you a heathy and happy 2025. With that, I humbly yield and thank you all, once again, for your support.”

Obituary: Edward Dean Horn, 78, Belmont

 

Belmont, NY – Edward Dean Horn, 78, of 5128 State Route 244, died December 29, 2024, peacefully at home surrounded by love.  Ed was born May 19, 1946, in Wellsville, the son of the late Seymour and Belva Blanche (Burdge) Horn. On May 31, 2013, in Belmont, he married the former Susan E. Murray, who survives.

Ed was a 1965 graduate of Wellsville High School. Following high school, he was employed at Dresser for one year. He then joined the U.S. Army, serving from 1966 to 1968, attaining the rank of SP4 and served a tour of duty in Germany. Upon his return, Ed was employed by Dresser Rand for 41 years until his retirement in 2006.

He was a member of the American Legion for 36 years, a Life Member of the Frank B. Church Post No. 2530 Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as the Moore Lodge No. 1580 of the International Association of Machinists. He enjoyed watching the Buffalo Bills, and a cold Miller High Life. Most of all, he was a kind and caring man who truly loved his family and many friends.

In addition to his wife, Susan, Ed is survived by two daughters, Sherry (Don) Horan of Wellsville, and Tracy (Brad) White of Anderson, SC, a stepson Thomas (Jessica) Dayton of Lakewood, NY, five grandchildren: Brittney Horan, Brianna Horan, Alexis (Ryan) Padden, Jada White, Brooke Angelo; and a great grandson Nolan Padden. Ed was predeceased in addition to his parents by a son, Scott E. Horn, his wife, Charlotte “Penny” Horn and his sister, Marilyn Foster.

A private graveside service with full military honors is being planned for a later date. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellsville. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County or the Amity Rescue Squad. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Potential for multiple injuries in Friendship apartment house fire - Allegany County

BREAKING- A fire was reported Thursday afternoon at 4-6 Depot Street in Friendship (Allegany County). Friendship, FAST Team 3 from Wellsville, Scio (with masked firefighters for interior work) and Cuba responded to the apartment building, where one fire chief said smoke was showing. Medical Transport Service assumed initial medical command and reported at least seven or more people required medical aid. MTS asked for several of its units, along with two ambulances from Wellsville, one from Cuba and another from Belfast. Additional ambulances were needed for ongoing EMS in Wellsville for calls requiring Andover and Genesee, PA to assist. 

New York State Police Wall of Honor - Today we remember Trooper Michael J. Anson

New York State Police Wall of Honor - Today we remember Trooper Michael J. Anson

On January 2, 2018, Trooper Michael J. Anson passed away from an illness stemming from his assignment at the World Trade Center site following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001.

Following the events of 9/11, Trooper Anson was assigned to New York City to aid in the search and recovery efforts.

Trooper Anson, 56, entered the State Police on September 22, 1986 and served with the State Police for 31 years.

Trooper Anson is survived by his wife and their three children.

2025 Allegany County Board of Legislators standing committees

 

 

2025

ALLEGANY COUNTY BOARD OF LEGISLATORS

STANDING COMMITTEES 

 

 

1.            HUMAN SERVICES:                                                                        

Chairman:  Burdick   Vice Chairman:  Ricketts-Swales                            

Committee Members:  Barnes, Hanchett, Healy, Root 

 

2.            PERSONNEL:                                                                                  

Chairman:  Ricketts-Swales Vice Chairman:  Ricci                                              

Committee Members:  Burdick, Hanchett, Havey, Root 

            Special – Negotiations Liaison Committee (Sub-Committee of Personnel)

            Chairman:  Ricci 

 

3.            PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:                           

Chairman:  Root        Vice Chairman:  Hanchett                            

Committee Members:  Barnes, Curran, Havey, Healy, Ricci, Ricketts-Swales 

 

4.            PUBLIC SAFETY:                                                                            

Chairman:  Havey     Vice Chairman:  Stockin                                          

Committee Members:  Barnes, Demick, Healy, Ricketts-Swales 

 

5.            PUBLIC WORKS:                                                                                         

Chairman:  Fanton     Vice Chairman:  Demick                              

Committee Members:  Barnes, Curran, Healy, Stockin

 

Special – Space Needs Committee (Sub-Committee of Public Works)                   

Chairman:  Demick   Vice Chairman:  Healy                                 

Committee Members:   Fanton, Hanchett, Havey, Root, Rumfelt

 

 

6.            RESOURCE MANAGEMENT                                                          

Chairman:  Curran     Vice Chairman:  Hanchett                                        

Committee Members:  Barnes, Demick, Fanton, Ricketts-Swales 

 

7.            WAYS & MEANS:                                                                            

Chairman:  Stockin    Vice Chairman:  Fanton                                           

Committee Members:   Burdick, Demick, Havey, Healy, Ricci, Root

 

Special – Budget Committee (Sub-Committee of Ways & Means)              

Chairman:  Burdick   Vice Chairman:  Barnes                               

Committee Members:  Curran, Fanton, Ricci, Rumfelt, Stockin

Major Amie P. Feroleto’s appointment as the first female Troop A Commander - includes Amity barracks

On January 2, 2025, Major Amie P. Feroleto’s appointment as the first female Troop A Commander in the 107-year history of the New York State Police is a landmark achievement. She becomes the 28th Troop A Commander, bringing with her 22 years of dedicated service, extensive experience across multiple Troops and roles, and advanced educational credentials that underscore her exemplary leadership and commitment to public safety.

In her new role, Major Feroleto will oversee all State Police patrol and investigative operations across the eight counties of Western New York, managing over 400 sworn and civilian personnel.

Since beginning her State Police career in 2002, Major Feroleto has steadily risen through the ranks. Her diverse roles have included Uniform Trooper, Sergeant, Station Commander, Lieutenant, and Captain. Additionally, she served in the Professional Standards Bureau, gaining valuable experience in oversight and accountability.

Major Feroleto holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management and a master’s degree in criminal justice, reflecting her dedication to continuous learning and professional excellence. Her career, spanning service in Troops A, B, D, E, H, and K, demonstrates her adaptability and wide-ranging expertise.

This historic achievement not only recognizes Major Feroleto’s individual accomplishments but also sets an inspiring precedent for future leaders in law enforcement.

Obituary: Gary O. Erway, 77, Ulysses, PA

Gary O. ERWAY, 77, of Ulysses, PA, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.  Born on August 7, 1947, at home in Newfield, he was the son of L. Clifton and Mary E. Gearhart Erway.  A 1965 graduate of Northern Potter High School, Gary served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1966 – 1968.  On April 18, 1970, in Gold, he married the former Rita Lehman, who predeceased him on May 7, 2014.  Gary was known for his unwavering commitment to his community and family.  He worked at National Fuel Gas Company and the Ulysses Borough Authority, retiring in 2017. In addition, Gary worked as a dairy farmer for many years, embodying the hard work and dedication characteristics of rural life. A devoted member of the Ulysses Methodist Church, he also played an active role in the Tri-Town Volunteer Fire Company and the Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association. As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for 30 years, Gary also served as a certified EMT Instructor, sharing his knowledge and passion to prepare others for lifesaving service.  Gary’s compassion and selflessness knew no bounds. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting friends and neighbors, he was a steadfast presence in his community.  Gary was honored as Ulysses Citizen of the Year, a testament to his tireless dedication.  His acts of care extended deeply into his home life, as he lovingly cared for his wife and daughter during their illnesses.  Surviving are: his daughters, Nicole (Donald Empson) Erway of Ulysses and Angela (Thomas Colwell) Erway of Bradford; a grandson, Bailey; two brothers, Melvin (Kay) Erway of Ulysses and Gordon (Marylou) Erway of Gold; and many cherished nieces and nephews.  In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by a daughter, Malissa S. Erway, on January 17, 2012; two brothers, Lawrence C. Erway and Wayne S. Erway; and a sister, Carol Erway.  A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 in the Ulysses Methodist Church.  Lay speaker Eric Lutz will officiate.  A fellowship luncheon will follow in the Tri-Town Ambulance & Fire Hall social room. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Tri-Town Volunteer Ambulance Association or the Ulysses Methodist Church.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Olney-Foust purchases J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, Inc.

Row one L-R:    Sheila Olney, Bella Wenslow, Katie Jo Foust, Diana Embser, Kyleigh Morris, Diane Dynda

Row two L-R:    Benjamin R. Olney, Tim Colligan, Dennis White, Walter Gardner, Dylan Foust, Dale Howell, John Embser, Chad Green, Mark DeGraff, Aaron Olney, Jed Gehman, Frank Switzer, Jr.

Local funeral directors Benjamin R. Olney, Dylan P. Foust, John W. Embser, and Walter D. Gardner are pleased to announce the merger of businesses to better serve the community and ensure the future of our funeral homes.  Olney-Foust locations in Wellsville, Ulysses, and Port Allegany and Embser locations in Wellsville and Belmont will all continue to operate.  Mr. Foust will oversee operations of locations in New York and Mr. Olney will oversee operations of locations in Pennsylvania.  Mr. Embser and Mr. Gardner will remain as active funeral directors, continuing the long tradition of service and legacy of compassion of the Embser and Gardner families. 

New York State Police Blotter – Dec. 31, 2024-1/1/2025

New York State Police Blotter – Dec. 31, 2024-1/1/2025

1/1/25 12:50 a.m.- During a traffic stop in the town of Caneadea, state police arrested Dylan R. Fuller, 31, of Cuba. He was charged with driving while intoxicated. He was held at the county jail for Central arraignment.

12/31/24 9:51 p.m.-State police were called to a complaint in the city of Elmira. As a result, troopers arrested James A. Bailey, 55, of Elmira. He was charged with felony menacing a police officer, resisting arrest, criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use and obstruction. He was jailed on $50,000 cash bail.

Bath police chief Taft announces resignation

 Village of Bath residents,

I am retiring after 4 years as your Chief of Police and 22.5 years in police work. My retirement will take effect Dec. 31 and I wish whoever replaces me the best of luck in the future. It’s safe to say, I know why police have a 20 year retirement. Some accomplishments we have achieved in the last 4 years are as follows:

A new state of the art police department that was long overdue, an Employee assistance program that we never had and a peer specialist within the agency to lean on during rough times, a K9 dog purchased solely through a fundraiser, a fully committed and very motivated police department was formed during the hardest years of policing in NY’s history- post bail reform. I promoted 4 sergeants and an investigator and ensured they were fully trained and mentored to be highly efficient officers, we rolled out body cameras for the first time and established our first comprehensive in-service training program covering high liability areas such as up to date defensive tactics, serving people with mental health problems, principled policing, high liability policy annual review, etc. We gave all officers training on Narcan and put it in every vehicle for our safety as well.

We upgraded all firearms, put less lethal shotguns in the cars and for the first time all vehicles have tire deflation devices. I upgraded the security to our Municipal building with cameras to cover all angles inside and out and had panic buttons installed in all offices. The downtown camera security package was very limited and we finished this upgrade to include all desired areas in the park, bus stop, and all high crime areas. I ensured our vehicle maintenance program was put back on track and vehicles were made reliable again in a cost effective way. Our training records for the first time were complete and organized to include training records of who attended in service training and course curriculum. All officers were sent to 4 days of training for ALERRT 1 and 2 for active shooter events and casualty triage and gun shot wound mitigation.

We pushed out the first full Bath PD policy and procedure manual about 2 years ago and at last count we were around 600 pages to guide us in our success.

Our personnel complaints were streamlined to an official form made under penalty of perjury and fully investigated and appropriate discipline was taken in all cases. Accountability of the officers was brought into full compliance and expectations defined and standards upheld. Mentoring, the non-stop development of junior leaders into full fledged decision makers was a constant and never ending endeavor that provided me the most reward.

We added 2 new full-time police officer positions during my tenure. These positions replace the inconsistency of part-time officers and provide overlap during the busiest 10 hours of our work days. This provides us with more proactive versus reactive policing capabilities and allows for adequate supervision and staffing to ensure the public is adequately served and the new discovery timelines can be met. We created our first supervisor of the road patrol position. First Sergeant Recktenwald reviews all work the sergeant’s produce and ensures accountability.

I could go on about what the Bath PD did together but in short I feel I left it the best police department it’s ever been. I encourage my replacement to build on the skyscraper we have built for them. Many challenges lie in wait for Bath to include the future 49 units near the Village epicenter. It will take a lot of planning and dedication for Bath to succeed in the future.

Changing the norm will always create the haters but it was worth the struggle. The courage to be disliked if need be is a seldom trait anymore. Being Chief was never a popularity contest for me it was a business that involved protecting the public responsibly and efficiently while balancing the needs and protections of my officers and one I took very seriously to heart.

The team I have assembled will continue to serve you all in the utmost professional and accomplished manner. It’s been an honor serving the Bath community.

Colin Taft

Obituary: Larry (Hotdog) Stephens, 83, owner and CEO of Stephens Auto Inc in Canisteo

Larry (Hotdog) Stephens, owner and CEO of Stephens Auto Inc,Canisteo

Larry D “Hotdog” Stephens, 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday (Dec, 29, 2024)
after a four-month battle with cancer. Born in Hornell on Nov 13,1941 He was the son of John Clarence and Eloise (Denhoff)Stephens. Larry grew up in Canisteo and was a Graduate of Canisteo Central School class of 1960. Larry was a jack of all trades and master of many.
During High school years you would find him working in his father’s business delivering television sets, putting up antennas and running TV cable lines. He also worked part time at Smith’s Texaco and the bowling alley.
In 1962 he married and moved to Bath NY where he was a Mechanic at Dalman Lincoln Mercury and the Flying A Gas Station. In1964, he moved back to Canisteo and decided to open his own business (Stephen Garage) as a Full time Mechanic. During those years he was known as the best mechanic around and could fix and repair anything. After making many trips a day to Hornell for parts he decided to start stocking some inventory in the garage.
In the early 70’s he bought the Harold Ordway Farm on Greenwood Road and built a parts store that was known as Stephens Auto Supply. After being in business for about 10 years he decided to locate in Hornell where there was more traffic. In the late 70’s he purchased the property at 7450 Seneca Road North. There were two houses on this property that were in the way of building a new store so he decided to have them moved up the hill out back. He built the foundations, and with the help of Boces students and teacher he was to get them moved. Around 1980 he built the new store. Around 2000 he purchased the Hornell Taste-Freeze which was next door to the parts store. Around 2014 he got the brainstorm of building a larger Parts store out behind the Taste-Freeze as the other was getting filled up. This is where Stephens Auto is today.
With his son pretty much running the business now, he decided to focus on rental property. He purchased the property on the corner of Purdy Creek and Route 248 Greenwood Road. He has redone the house and now has it rented out. He redone the old auto parts store and his home into four rental apartments which he has all rented now. He was in the process of redoing his mother’s house for another rental, but he had to stop working on it due to his illness. That one will be finished at a later date.
His long term dream was to build a cabin and large pond upon the hill above the rental apartments The cabin has three floors and is three quarters of the way done. He is living out his dream in the cabin with his two dogs Bear and Bailey. He had a deep love for animals and would spend hours feeding the squirrels, birds, and anything that came around, many of which would eat out of his hand.
He always kept you wondering whether he was telling the truth or pulling your leg, yet he always had a story to tell. Larry will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him and live on through the many memories and stories that everyone cherishes.
He was predeceased by his parents, Clarence Stephens and Eloise Messing, his siblings, Virginia Hilyard, Barbara Hurd, and John Stephens Jr.
Surviving are his only son, Larry Stephens II and his younger sister Betty Drake along with nieces, nephews, and cousins, his two dogs, Bear and Bailey, and many close friends too many to mention.
The family of Larry Stephens will receive friends on Saturday (Jan. 4, 2025) from 2 PM until 5PM at the Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 6 Spruce Street in Canisteo.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in his name to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Corning Hospital Cancer Treatment Center, 2 Guthrie Drive, Corning, NY 14830.

Obituary: Michael Myron Grastorf, 75, of Rochester-formerly of Angelica

Michael Myron Grastorf, 75, of Rochester, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Elderwood Nursing Home in Hornell, NY.

Born and raised in Angelica, NY, Michael graduated from Angelica Central School before pursuing higher education at Monroe Community College and the University of Rochester. He proudly served in the U.S. Army until a medical discharge altered his path, leading him to a lifelong career in technology and service.
Michael retired from Eastman Kodak Company after many years of trailblazing work in computer technology. Here his innovative work contributed to the company’s technological advancements during its peak years. His expertise took him as far as Taiwan, where he spent two years training teams and implementing advanced computer systems and software. After retiring from Kodak, Michael found fulfillment serving his community as a bus driver for Churchville-Chili Central School, forming bonds with students and staff alike.
Michael’s passion for tennis was evident throughout his life. A devoted tennis enthusiast, Michael was a longtime member of the Tennis Club of Rochester, where he spent countless hours on the courts sporting his favorite Adidas attire. He often helped set up tennis tournaments for youth groups at the tennis club and enjoyed giving back in any way that he could. His love for the sport brought him joy and camaraderie throughout his life.
He is predeceased by his mother Georgia Morton Grastorf and his father Harold Grastorf. Survived by his brother Steven (Shiela) Grastorf of Angelica and his sister Karen Derx of Syracuse. Nieces and nephews; Kim Derx, Christine (Garrett) Moll, Amber (Mark) Christensen, Darrin (Sarah) Grastorf, great nieces and nephews Makenna & Kinsey Moll, Carter, Jacob, Kylee Christensen & Cooper Grastorf. Michael’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the lessons he imparted and the support he offered over the years.
A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at Brown & Powers Funeral Home at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any local charity in his memory.
He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.

Obituary: George F. Harrier, Jr., 67, of Shinglehouse

 

George F. Harrier, Jr “beloved brother and uncle” 

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA---George F. Harrier, Jr., 67, of Shinglehouse, formerly of Port Allegany and Bradford, passed away in his home on Thursday, December 26, 2024, after a long illness. 

Born on Thursday, October 3, 1957 in Olean, NY, he was a son of George F. and Betty E. George Harrier. 

George attended Portville (NY) High School.  He loved antiques and had previously been employed in Bradford at an antique store.  

In his younger years, George was a volunteer fireman in Portville.  He enjoyed fishing with his nephew.  He loved his dog, Buddy and loved to work with his hands and tinkering in general. 

George is survived by three siblings, Jerry D. Harrier of Shinglehouse, Sherry (James “J.D.”) Gheen of Portville, NY, and Linda R. Turner of Shinglehouse; and several nieces and nephews.

 George was predeceased by his parents. In keeping with George’s wishes, no public services will be observed. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in George’s name may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915. 

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

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of George, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.