Obituary: Janice G. “Jan” Woythal, 80, Andover

Janice G. “Jan” Woythal, 80, passed away Tuesday (Aug. 28, 2018) at Jones Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.

​Mrs. Woythal was born on Dec. 22, 1937 in Syracuse to Henry and Virginia (Waldt) Latimer. She was a 1956 graduate of Marcellus Central School and later earned her Registered Nursing license from Highland Hospital in Rochester. On Aug. 22, 1959, at St. Francis Xavier Church in Marcellus, she married Frank M. Woythal, who survives.

Janice began her nursing career in 1959 and spent the final 25 years at Andover Medical Center in Andover before retiring in 1993.

In addition to her husband of 59 years Jan is survived by a son, Mark (Pam) Woythal of Duanesburg; two daughters, Karen (Gary) MacFarquhar of Evergreen, Colo. and Sue (John) Liebe of Brockport; a sister, Barbara (Bernard) Bleskoski of Rochester; two brothers, William Latimer of Marcellus and Robert (Laurie) Higgins of Winding Path; four grandchildren, Dylan Woythal of Schenectady, Andrew Woythal of Duanesburg, Douglas Liebe of Blacksburg, Va. and Brian Liebe of Brockport.

Jan loved to travel. In the earlier years, the family vacations took them to all 50 states and the entire country of Canada from coast to coast. In 1999, their travels took on a different purpose when they joined Habitat for Humanity Care-A-Vanners.​

Over the next 13 years, she and her husband helped build nearly 100 homes in 16 states and Canada and have met some of the finest people along the way including Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. Because they lived by the motto “Those Who Rest Will Rust”, they maintained this pattern until they were 75 and 80 respectively.

Jan was an avid gardener. One of her favorite spots to visit was the famous Butchart Gardens in British Columbia. She loved the solitude of her own flower garden at home and spent many hours tending to her passion. Another favorite pastime, which she shared with her husband, was bird watching. Together, they have catalogued over 400 life birds in 49 states.

​Jan and her husband Frank were truly joined at the hip. She was devoted to her husband, children and grandchildren and loved them dearly. On the wall above their bed is a saying that reads “Just one lifetime won’t be enough for us”. A beautiful summation of how they cared for each other.

There will be no prior visitation. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church in Andover. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover.

Jan’s family wishes to thank all the wonderful responders at the Andover Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Andover Volunteer Ambulance Corps., 60 South Main St., Andover, NY 14806.

Obituary: Theresa A. Robinson, 59, of Shinglehouse

Theresa A. Robinson “beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister”

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA-Theresa A. Robinson, 59, of Shinglehouse, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Tuesday, August 28, 2018, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, N.Y.

Born on July 6, 1959 in Port Allegany, she was a daughter of Wallace W. and Kathleen Brodfuehrer Greene.  On July 31, 1988 in Smethport, she married Michael J. “Mike” Robinson, who survives.

Theresa attended Smethport High School and Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse.  She had previously been employed at the former Hadden’s Store in Ceres.

Theresa formerly attended the First Baptist Church in Shinglehouse.  She enjoyed reading and flower gardening.  Her greatest love was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Surviving besides her husband are four children, Ryan T. Schultz and Melissa M. Payne, both of Shinglehouse, Michael J. (Alexandria) Robinson of Alexandria, Virginia and Patrick J. (Jessica) Schultz of Appleton, N.Y.; thirteen grandchildren; three brothers, David (Helga) Greene of Germany, Larry (Debbie) Greene of Albion, and Raymond (Valerie) Greene of Bradford; two sisters, Betsy Sweet of Bradford and Rose Jackson of Clarendon; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Theresa was predeceased by two brothers, John Greene and Thomas Greene; and a sister, Karen Schneider.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Friday, August 31, 2018, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, where funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Russell J. Horning, pastor of the First Baptist Church, Shinglehouse, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Theresa’s name may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Box 68, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

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

To express condolences or share a fond memory of Theresa, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.  

Obituary: Dalton Lee Osgood, 18, Shinglehouse

Dalton L. Osgood “beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend”

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA-Dalton Lee Osgood, 18, a lifelong resident of Shinglehouse, passed away from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in the Town of Alma, N.Y. on Thursday, August 23, 2018.

Born on September 8, 1999 in Wellsville, N.Y., he was a son of Justin Osgood and Beth Carr.

Dalton attended Oswayo Valley School in Shinglehouse.  He was employed by Shutt Logging in Genesee and Top Notch Enterprises.

Dalton was an avid hunter, fisherman, and video gamer.  From his childhood, he also valued following in his father’s paths in logging and operating heavy equipment, making him an excellent operator, and also fueling his love of diesel trucks.

Surviving besides his father of Shinglehouse and his mother of Shinglehouse, are two brothers, Reece Osgood and Brent (Jenna Maxson) Dietze, both of Shinglehouse; his maternal grandparents, Shirley Carr of Shinglehouse and Tommy Carr of Shinglehouse; paternal grandparents, Gayle and Dennie Clark of Belmont, N.Y. and Ray and Sandy Osgood of Sabinsville; many special friends, including Leo Shutt, Corey James, Shawn Jones, and Spencer Cole; and many aunts, uncles and cousins, including special cousin, Makenzie Carr.

Family and friends are invited to share memories at a celebration of Dalton’s life from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, August 31, 2018, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

These arrangements for Dalton have been entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa.

To express condolences, share a fond memory, or view a video tribute of Dalton’s life, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com.

Wellsville Police Department news

The Wellsville Police Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Officer Tom Fanton to the rank of Sergeant. Fanton has been serving the village of Wellsville since 2012 and will be assigned as supervisor on the evening shift. Congratulations Sergeant Fanton.
 

The Wellsville Police Department is pleased to announce that Sergeant Chad Green will be assigned as  the School Resource Officer for the Wellsville School District. Thank you to the Wellsville School District administration and Chief O'Grady for their diligent work in making this happen and making our schools a safer place. Congratulations Sergeant Green.

Allegany County Budget Committee minutes - August 15, 2018

BUDGET COMMITTEE

August 15, 2018
Committee Members Present: P. Curran, P. Stockin, J. Burdick, D. Fanton, B. Harris, J. Ricci, C. Crandall

Others Present: G. Barnes, T. Boyde, D. Decker, W. Dibble, K. Dirlam, V. Grant, K. Graves, D. Healy, J. Henry, J. Hopkins, D. Horan, G. James, C. Knapp, B. Riehle, T. Ross, D. Scholes, M. Washer

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Budget Committee Chairman Phil Curran.



Public Works – 2019 Budget Review
Public Works Superintendent Guy James attended the meeting to discuss his 2019 Budget requests for the following cost centers: Public Works Administration (A1490), Buildings (A1620), Traffic Control (A3310), Solid Waste (A8160), Traffic Control (A3310), County Road Fund D, as well as Road Machinery Fund DM. Mr. James stated there is a lot of work that goes into his budget and thanked Fiscal Manager Yvonne Marks and County Treasurer Terri Ross for all of their hard work that goes into completing it. Mr. James continued that it is tough to only have 15 to 20 minutes to go over the magnitude of his budget and encourages anyone with questions to please go see him or Ms. Marks. Legislator Harris asked for an explanation of the different budgets. Ms. Ross stated that General Fund A is for administration costs, Building and Grounds, and the Landfill. County Road D covers the labor costs associated with capital projects and snow plowing. Road Machinery DM covers equipment, and Fund H are capital projects for 2019.
General Fund
Mr. James stated they have included funds to accommodate overlap training for Ms. Marks’ position for her upcoming 2020 retirement. Committee Chairman Curran asked how long that position will require overlap for training. Mr. James stated they budgeted for 6 months of training. Legislator Graves noted the increase in cost in 2018 for solid waste permits and asked if they plan to keep the same rate for 2019. Deputy Superintendent Dean Scholes stated it is ultimately up to the Board what the rate will be; however, he proposes to keep it the same.
Road Machinery Fund
Mr. James indicated they are requesting the following in their 2019 Road Machinery budget that totals approximately $605,000:

- 1 Self Propelled Road Broom

- 1 Tandem Dump Truck with Plow and Sander

- 2 Tandem Axle Dump Trucks
Capital Projects
Mr. James stated there will be four town projects in Ward, Birdsall, Burns, and Almond, one of which is a culvert. There are also two County projects; one is a bridge and one is a culvert.
Vehicle Fleet Program
Legislator Harris asked what Mr. James’ impression is of the lease program and how it is working for his department. Mr. James stated there are some bugs that need to be worked out. Part of the lease program was to eventually be turning back vehicles that had significant cash value to them; however, they are not at that point yet, but Mr. James hopes in year three they will be. Ms. Ross stated the lease program is a 5-year plan, and it is difficult to track right now because there are so many old vehicles to get rid of. Mr. James indicated they have been auctioning their scrap vehicles, and any money received goes into the fleet account as revenue. Legislator Decker stated one of the goals of the leasing program was to reduce the size of the County’s fleet, and asked if they have seen a Countywide reduction. Mr. Boyde stated that the fleet is not exactly where they want it, but it is reducing, adding they have also slowed down the department requests to purchase vehicles. Legislator Decker asked if there is an option to discontinue the program after the five years. Mr. Boyde stated yes, and there is also the option to discontinue it during the five years. Ms. Ross stated that departments are required to remove a vehicle prior to receiving a new one through the program. They do not receive the keys to the new vehicle until the old one is taken off the road, and the license plates are given to Mr. James.
Clerk of the Board – 2019 Budget Review
Clerk of the Board Brenda Rigby Riehle attended the meeting to discuss her 2019 Budget requests for the following cost centers: Legislative Board (A1010), Clerk of the Board (A1040), Central Services – Printing (A1670), Central Services – UPS (A1672), Central Services – Postage (A1673), Unallocated Insurance (A1910), Municipal Association Dues (A1920), and the CS Risk Retention Fund. Mrs. Riehle suggested that the $1,000 allocated to A1010.411 (Repairs: Personal Property) be moved to A1010.405 (Conference/Expense) as the Board is going to be short in their conference budget. Legislator Graves asked what the $1,000 was to be used for. Mrs. Riehle stated some filing cabinets were painted and repaired in 2018, and she does not believe that it will be needed in 2019. Mrs. Riehle stated that all .4 accounts remain the same, although, she did put in a little extra in the .2 account as she likes to replace one computer a year in her office. The committee briefly discussed the Central Service Postage account and the process of billing departments for reimbursement. Legislator Harris asked what the $52,000 purchase of equipment was for. Mrs. Riehle stated it was for the upgrade of the Chambers, and of the $52,000, they have spent $11,000. Legislator Harris asked if they are done, and Mrs. Riehle stated she is not sure as it is up to the Board.
CS Fund
Mrs. Riehle stated CS-15 599.00 (Risk Retention Fund) is budgeted at $291,000 which has been the same amount for 20 years. Ms. Ross noted that this fund has enough to continually fund itself and does not take any money from the levy at this point in time. Legislator Ricci asked what risks this fund covers. Mrs. Riehle stated it covers all liability claims against the County including legal counsel, as well as property and vehicles. Ms. Ross added that it also covers unemployment insurance.
County Treasurer – 2019 Budget Review
County Treasurer Terri Ross attended the meeting to discuss her 2019 Budget requests for the following cost centers: Treasurer (A1325), Tax Sale and Redemption (A1362), Auditing (A1671), Taxes on Municipal Property (A1950), Community College (A2495), County Reforestation (A8710), and Debt Service Fund. Ms. Ross stated that her budget remains the same as years past and briefly discussed each line item within her budget.
Community Colleges
Ms. Ross stated Community Colleges is the largest portion of her budget, and they have seen a slight decrease. She is unsure where they will land in 2018, but she is comfortable with budgeting $950,000 rather than $1,000,000 for 2019. Legislator Harris asked if the decrease is due to the declining population. Ms. Ross stated she believes it is due to the free tuition program as well as more options for online schooling. Committee Chairman Curran noted the increase in trade school could also be a contributing factor.

Debt Service Fund
Ms. Ross stated at this time they have two outstanding bonds. The Public Safety Facility bonds matures in 2029, and the Courthouse bond matures in 2035. Ms. Ross indicated that the Public Safety Facility was refinanced in 2006 which saved thousands of dollars in interest, and when the Courthouse bond is up for refinancing, they will look into that option. Chairman Crandall stated that it’s worth noting that not long ago there would have been a lot more outstanding debt, but now they are in position to "pay as we go" versus bonding our projects.
County Administrator – 2019 Budget Review
County Administrator Timothy Boyde attended the meeting to discuss his 2019 Budget requests for the following cost centers: County Administrator (A1011), Assigned Counsel (A1171), Auditor (A1320), Budget (A1340), Land Acquisition or Lease (A1622), Contingency (A1990), Bus Transportation (A5630), Beach & Pool (A7180), Other Recreation (A7185), Historian/Records Storage (A7510), County Reforestation (A8710), Wildlife Habitat & Stream (A8720), Conservation (A8730), Cooperative Extension (A8751), and CSH Risk Retention Health Fund. Mr. Boyde briefly discussed each account in his budget. Legislator Decker asked why the County is still paying rent for the church parking lot when we now have the Tronetti parking lot available. Mr. Boyde stated it is up to the Board to terminate that lease; however, he does not recommend it as we continue to have parking issues. Mr. Boyde indicated he would like to move County vehicles to the Tronetti lot which will free up additional spaces.
Contingency
Mr. Boyde stated they are looking at an increase in A1990.429 (Contingency) as they are currently running low in that account. Mr. Boyde indicated they will be budgeting $350,000 rather than $250,000. Legislator Graves asked what has come out of Contingency to cause it to run low. Mr. Boyde stated the Shared Services and Cyber Insurance Contracts. Ms. Ross noted that this account does not incur expenses; it is used to transfer to other accounts that are in need of funds. Mr. Boyde stated he likes to keep contingency as low as possible because you’re less tempted to spend in areas you shouldn’t be.
Hotel Tax
Legislator Harris asked if Alfred University pays the tax on the Saxon Inn and what the status is of their PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes). Ms. Ross stated they do not have a PILOT, and she is not able to provide additional details as it is confidential information. Ms. Ross indicated that the County is looking into contracts with Air BNB’s to start receiving hotel tax as they are not currently covered in the County’s Hotel Tax Law.
Bed Tax
Legislator Harris stated he believes it would be in the County’s best interest to investigate the possibility of instituting a bed tax on our universities. It’s been done in other municipalities, and Alfred, having over 90 percent of assessed value non-taxable, is a tremendous burden. Legislator Harris continued that he feels a small bed tax based on the number of students would be something appropriate to consider. Ms. Ross asked what County or municipality has done this, and Legislator Harris stated he does not know of any counties, but he will get the municipalities to Ms. Ross.


Land Bank Legislator Graves asked for the purpose of the $100,000 request from the Land Bank. Mr. Boyde stated it will help them secure additional funding, purchase additional homes, and provide assistance with the tax sale process. Mr. Boyde indicated the request has not fully been vetted yet as it was just received. Legislator Fanton asked if there are specific rules for use of the money. Mr. Boyde stated these funds are to be allocated by percentage for the purchase and rehabilitation of homes as well as demolition. Legislator Fanton asked what percentage can be put towards demo as $1 million goes quick once you start rehabbing. Planning Director Kier Dirlam stated the $1 million grant hasn’t been written yet, adding the immediate reason for this $100,000 request was due to concern that the Land Bank was going to hit 2019 and not have administrative funding left to keep the office open. Mr. Dirlam continued that he has been asked by funding agencies why our County doesn’t allocate any money to the Land Bank as these agencies are looking at how much commitment the County has to it. Legislator Fanton asked about the demos that have already been done, and Mr. Dirlam indicated they don’t count as they were not done through the Land Bank. Legislator Fanton noted the Land Bank just received some properties from the tax sale. Mr. Dirlam stated they do have a few; however, unfortunately the quality of them was awful and would make better demolitions than rehabs. Mr. Boyde stated they are looking into how to write the grant so we can get the biggest bang for our buck. Legislator Graves stated he would like to remove the $100,000 from the 2019 Budget until a decision is made. Mr. Dirlam indicated that without the $100,000 set aside until they can get to the next grant, they will run out of money and their office will go dark. Legislator Harris stated it was his understanding that when the Land Bank was formed and they received seed money, it would become self-sufficient. Mr. Dirlam stated that it didn’t work out that way, and he believes it’s the same situation across the state. Legislator Dibble suggested 10 to 20 percent in administration costs be added into the grant to help keep their doors open. Mr. Dirlam stated that the current grant does have admin money and that’s what they’ve been running on; however, they are getting to the end of what they can use. Chairman Crandall stated the original plan for these didn’t work out all across the State, but if we can take that $100,000 and potentially get $1 million in demolition money, it seems foolish not to do. Ms. Ross stated that the Land Bank needs to remember that the County did contribute to them by giving up five tax sale properties, two of which they know could have been sold, noting that the Land Bank has not done anything with the properties. Mr. Dirlam stated he doesn’t disagree; however, due to how the transfer was done, it is not viewed by the State as a contribution. Legislator Fanton thanked Mr. Dirlam for his efforts, and suggested they look at what direction needs to be taken with the Land Bank.
Medical Insurance
Chairman Crandall addressed the $1.3 million increase in CSH Risk Retention – Health, asking if that number still needs to be worked on. Ms. Ross stated they are going to be short in 2018, and after reviewing what has been spent over the last few years, she believes at least $1 million needs to be allocated. Ms. Ross plans to reach out to our Third Party Administrator for an explanation of expenses the County has incurred over the last couple of years. Ms. Ross continued that she also has some concerns with the administration costs associated with Medical Insurance as she thought they would see a decrease when they changed administrators and insurance from Blue Cross to Independent Health; however, they are not a seeing a decrease, noting that so far, $351,000 has been spent on admin costs. Ms. Ross indicated that $6 million was spent in medical claims which was up from $800,000 the year before. Legislator Fanton stated they may need to start encouraging retirees still on the County insurance to sign up for the Medicare Advantage Plan. Chairman Crandall stated that he thought it was a requirement. Legislator Fanton indicated that retirees who are grandfathered are not required, but there was a time when they strongly encouraged it, and he feels they should do it again. Ms. Ross stated there is a Resolution in place that requires employees hired after a certain date to move over once they retire.  

Wellsville Airport



Mr. Boyde indicated there is a request forthcoming from the Town of Wellsville asking the Board to consider allocating funds in the amount of $75,000 to the Wellsville Airport in the name of economic development as the activities happening there can and do have impact on the development of the County.
Special Meeting
Ms. Ross requested a special Budget Committee meeting be held on Wednesday, October 3, at 9:30 a.m. for the purpose of reviewing Budget Officer recommendations for the 2019 Budget. The meeting was subsequently changed to a Committee of the Whole. Approval of minutes
A motion was made by Legislator Fanton, seconded by Legislator Ricci, and carried to approve the Budget Committee minutes of July 18, 2018. Sales Tax Report County Treasurer Terri Ross distributed the 2018 Allegany County Sales Tax Report reflecting receipts totaling $12,708,379.12. The year-to-date figures show an increase of $981,688.72 or 8.371 percent more compared to last year at this time. Ms. Ross stated they are fortunate to still be in the black and it seems standard statewide to be up 8 percent. 2018 County Treasurers & Finance Officers Summer Conference Ms. Ross distributed and briefly discussed a summary of the 2018 County Treasurers & Finance Officer Summer Conference. Ms. Ross indicated they will be receiving a copy for Allegany County as to where our specific sales tax is coming from, and she looks forward to reviewing the information. Department of Social Services Second Quarter Budget Report Social Services Commissioner Vicki Grant attended the meeting and submitted her second quarter budget report to the committee for review. Ms. Grant stated that they are on target with projections. Semi-Annual Budget Reports Committee Chairman Curran noted the semi-annual budget reports for all remaining departments are included in the packet, and the committee can review them at their leisure. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 11:17 a.m. following a motion by Legislator Fanton, seconded by Legislator Stockin, and carried.

Respectfully submitted,
Meghan Washer, Confidential Secretary to the Clerk of the Board
Allegany County Board of Legislators

Houghton College Student & Rushford Resident Presents at National Conference

HOUGHTON, NY – Houghton College senior Emilia Gildemeister, an environmental biology major from Rushford, NY, recently presented at the Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists.
The annual meeting of three scientific societies – the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, the Herpetologist’s League, and the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles – provides an opportunity for those in the field to network with professional peers and share current research in the fields of zoology related to fish and amphibians.
At this year’s conference, Gildemeister presented a poster of her senior honors work with Allegheny Mountain dusky salamanders and her attempt to teach them to recognize a new predator as a potential threat through the use of chemical stimuli pairing. Her goal was to test for the ability of associative learning, which may be important to species survival in light of modern global amphibian decline. Dr. Aaron Sullivan, associate professor of biology and department chair, was her “greatest encourager” as she designed her own research project.
As one of only a few undergraduate students at the meeting, Gildemeister networked and interacted with graduate students and researchers. “By sitting in on difference presentations and talking with graduate students who are in a place [where] I see myself in a couple years, I learned a lot about what to expect as I further my education, and the kinds of opportunities that are available to me if I pursue them,” she notes.

Improvements Underway to Enhance User Experience at DEC's Cayuga Lake Mud Lock Boat Launch Site

Temporary Closure of Launch Begins Tuesday, September 4th

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced upgrades to the Mud Lock boat launch located at the north end of Cayuga Lake in the town of Aurelius, Cayuga County. Site improvements underway include a new concrete launch ramp, floating boarding docks, paved launch access, and parking area. Funding for the project is provided through Governor Cuomo's Adventure NY initiative to connect more New Yorkers with nature.
The construction will result in an improved boat ramp and dock system that will allow launching under lower lake levels. In addition, the boat preparation area and parking lot will be modified to allow for more efficient launching and parking.
The site will be temporarily closed for renovation starting Tuesday, September 4, and is expected to remain closed through October. Boaters looking to access the north end of the lake during this period can use the boat launch at Cayuga Lake State Park, 2678 Lower Lake Road, Seneca Falls. Alternate public launching opportunities are also available at Frontenac Park, village of Union Springs on the east side of the lake. Boaters should contact these facilities for additional information.

Three sentenced for their roles in armed robberies in Rochester

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced Tuesday that Jonathan Middlebrooks, 22, Nasir Perez, 20, and Deborah Siegel-Edelman, 22, all of Rochester, NY, who were convicted of aiding and abetting Hobbs Act Robbery, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. Defendants Middlebrooks and Perez were also convicted of aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm that was discharged during a crime of violence. Defendant Perez was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison; defendant Middlebrooks was sentenced to serve 188 months in prison; and defendant Siegel-Edelman was sentenced to serve 144 months in prison.   Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean C. Eldridge, who handled the case, stated that Middlebrooks, Perez, and Siegel-Edelman took part in a series of gunpoint robberies at stores in the City of Rochester between September 3, 2017, and September 23, 2017: 

 

·        On September 3, 2017, Perez and Middlebrooks committed a gunpoint robbery of the Hudson Save More on Hudson Avenue. Together with co-conspirators Damien Rutledge and Dylan Miller, Perez acted as a lookout at the front door while Middlebrooks removed approximately $1,420 from the store’s cash registers;

·        On September 14, 2017, during a gunpoint robbery of the 18 Hour Store on North Goodman Street, Middlebrooks and Perez, along with co-defendants Miller and Rutledge, removed approximately $500 from the store’s cash register, while defendant Siegel-Edelman served as the getaway driver;

·        On September 18, 2017, during a gunpoint robbery of the Four Star Market on Lake Avenue, Middlebrooks and Perez, along with co-defendants Miller and Rutledge, removed approximately $2,650 from the store’s cash register, while defendant Siegel-Edelman served as the getaway driver;

·        On September 23, 2017, during a gunpoint robbery of the Bronx Market on Brown Street, Middlebrooks and Perez, along with co-defendants Miller and Rutledge, removed approximately $900 from the store’s cash register, while defendant Siegel-Edelman served as the getaway driver;

·        Also on September 23, 2017, Siegel-Edelman drove Middlebrooks and Perez, along with co-defendants Miller and Rutledge, to the Greyhound Express Mini Mart on Carter Street. Middlebrooks, Perez, Miller, and Rutledge entered the store, a gun was pointed at the store owner, and after a struggle between the store owner and one the robbers, a store employee removed the robber’s gun from the robber’s hand. The store employee then pointed the gun at Middlebrooks, who put his hands up, but also moved forward towards the store employee. After Middlebrooks took several steps towards the employee, the employee fired the gun, and the discharged round hit Middlebrooks in the stomach. Middlebrooks, Perez, Miller and Rutledge got back into Siegel-Edelman’s car, and she drove them away from the scene of the attempted robbery.

Charges remain pending against defendants Dylan Miller and Damien Rutledge. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

 

The sentencings are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert, and the Rochester Area Major Crimes Task Force and the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Ciminelli.

National Weather Service says "marginal" risk of severe weather Wednesday (Aug.29)

NEWS: Recovery and Suicide Prevention Are Prayer Focus of Allegany County Churches

Allegany County churches will hold community prayer in Belmont Friday night during International Overdose Awareness Day and join national efforts in September to increase knowledge about substance use treatment and recovery, mental health services and suicide prevention through two Sunday night prayer, praise and worship gatherings.
The August 31 session, from 7PM to 8PM at Fountain Arts at the Belmont, 48 Schuyler Street, is part of ongoing Friday night gatherings around the county, hosted by Mission Genesee Valley coalition of churches, other Christian organizations and individuals, to pray for community transformation and revival.
The expanded Sunday night events will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. September 9 at Wellsville Bible Church, 2908 Andover Road (State Route 417) and September 23 at Yorks Corners Mennonite Church, 3350 County Road 29, Wellsville, part of an ongoing three-component Journey to Transformation prayer focus.
Allegany County churches come together at the twice-a-month sessions for renewing of individual minds and hearts to combat issues of addiction, abuse, racism, suicide, poverty, family dysfunction and more that pastors say are growing throughout this area, the United States and world.  Prayer focuses have included schools and colleges, the local economy, veterans, substance abuse, children and families and more.
National Recovery Month is an annual observance to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with mental and/or substance use disorders to live a healthy and rewarding life.  National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is designed to share resources and stories that shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic.
Churches reported statistics in August showing the county's overall completed suicide rate at 15th from the top in New York State in 2015, although the rate has declined from being the highest several years ago, at which time churches became aware of and started praying about the situation.
Of 10th grade females, according to a 2017 county schools youth study, 14.9 percent reported having made a plan within the past year for how to attempt suicide, with 14.7 percent of 12th graders and 12.9 percent of eighth graders reporting the same.  Males report a lesser percentage at each grade level.
Students also said they have "felt depressed or sad most days" in the past year, "even if (they) felt OK sometimes," with 55.4 percent of 12th grade females either agreeing or strongly agreeing with the statement, along with 30.3 percent of males.  The number for females is fairly consistent from eighth grade on.
Over a quarter of all 12th grade females report having hurt themselves by personal cutting or burning when they are upset about something, with males at 11.3 percent.  This number for all females, eighth grade and above, is in excess of 21 percent.
In addition, 16.9 percent of 12th grade students had engaged in binge drinking in the past month, with 29.2 percent having used alcohol during that same period.

The survey also found over half of 12th graders using e-cigarettes or other tobacco vaporizers during the past 30 days, along with 32.6 percent of 10th graders, and 12.3 percent of eighth graders.  Over a third of students had used marijuana at some point, including 16.3 percent within the past month of the survey, with 3.4 percent of senior students having used other drugs, including 2.8 percent LSD or psychedelics and the same percentage for heroin and prescription pain killers during the same 30-day period.
The U.S. Surgeon General has reported that one in five adults, including children, experience a diagnosable mental illness in any one year, but federal reports also indicate some 60 percent of adults and two-thirds of children go without treatment.
In addition to Sunday night prayer gatherings, the Journey to Transformation prayer focus also includes the Friday night rotating community prayer, with a growing multi-church emphasis on the renewal of minds and hearts of individuals and families for county and communities transformation through prayer for the host and other churches and Christian organizations, individuals, the community, county and more.
Next month's Friday night gatherings include September 7 at the Salvation Army, 25 East Pearl Street, Wellsville; September 14 at Andover Alliance Church, 5 Rochambeau Avenue; and September 21 at Riverside Assembly of God Church, 3218 Riverside Drive (State Route 19), Wellsville.
A third set of weekly community prayer gatherings for individual and general concerns, including family members and friends, are held from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. each weekday at Knights Creek Church, 2987 Knights Creek Road (County Road 9), Scio; 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesdays at Belfast Free Methodist Church, 11 Chestnut Street; and 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays at the Power House Youth Center, 23 West Main Street, Fillmore.
Members of the community with prayer needs are welcome to attend any of these prayer events.
Knights Creek Church, along with Yorks Corners Mennonite Church, also will host an afternoon and evening orientation/workshop for pastors, church leaders and interested individuals on Saturday, September 22, to increase knowledge about Celebrate Recovery ministries at the two churches and Celebrate Recovery Inside at Allegany County Jail.  The current  host churches are seeking to expand throughout Allegany County the Christian 12-Step support groups that address all types of personal hurts, hangups, habits and struggles.
Further information about these activities and the Journey to Transformation initiative is available at www.facebook.com/TransformationJourneyUSA, or from Pastor Dan Kenyon of Wellsville Bible Church, Mission Genesee Valley chair, at wbc@ne.twcbc.com or (585) 593-6471, or most area pastors.  Information and required pre-registration for the upcoming Celebrate Recovery orientation/workshop is available from Casey Jones, Knights Creek Celebrate Recovery facilitator, at bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503.
     Information on National Recovery Month is available at www.recoverymonth.gov and on National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month at www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month.

Allegany County Human Services Committee meeting mintes - August 27, 2018

HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING August 27, 2018


Members Present: J. Hopkins, J. Burdick, G. Barnes, D. Decker, S. Havey, P. Stockin, C. Crandall (Absent: D. Root)

Others Present: L. Ballengee, B. Budinger, C. Clark, P. Curran, W. Dibble, K. Dirlam, V. Grant, K. Graves, D. Healy, C. Jones, C. Knapp, J. Ricci, B. Riehle, T. Ross, T. Shaw, M. Washer

Media Present: C. Potter – Wellsville Daily Reporter

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Human Services Committee Chair Judith Hopkins at 12:18 p.m. Alfred State Contract
 


Public Health Director Lori Ballengee requested a resolution to approve a 3-year agreement with Alfred State College to use space in their Health Center for the Reproductive Health Clinic in Alfred and Wellsville. Not only does the space meet all legal requirements, it is exactly the population we need to serve. Alfred State College is donating the space in both locations which is resulting in a significant savings of $15,000+ to the Family Planning/Reproductive Health Budget, and it will also allow greater access to the targeted population for this program. This agreement has been reviewed and approved by the County Administrator and the County Attorney. Ms. Ballengee thanked the committee for their flexibility to hold a special meeting, stating she believed it would originally just be an addendum to the current contact; however, Alfred State decided to draft a new contract that needs to follow the proper process for approval. Legislator Burdick asked if these clinics only serve college students. Ms. Ballengee stated, no, both college students and the general public are welcome. Committee Chair Hopkins asked what publicity will be done for the new clinic site. Ms. Ballengee stated they have already reached out to their existing clients, and once the contract receives Board approval, she will send out a press release. Legislator Barnes asked what services are offered at these clinics. Ms. Ballengee stated they offer family planning and reproductive services such as PAP smears, contraception (emergency included), STD testing, pregnancy tests, and they also provide a lot of education. Legislator Barnes asked what percentage of clientele that needs these services actually use them. Ms. Ballengee stated it can be difficult to determine who might need service and anyone can go see a physician so they don’t have to go to the clinic; however, they are now running one clinic per week compared to the one per month when they first started the program. Legislator Havey stated the clientele that frequently uses these clinics are more than likely not to have a physician in place, so without the clinics, these individuals would be going without medical care altogether. Ms. Ballengee agreed and noted that they also serve high school students who may prefer the confidentiality offered as they are not required to notify their parents. Ms. Ballengee thanked Alfred State for their generosity, noting that they recently lost Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) fund, and they more than likely would have had to close the Wellsville clinic if it hadn’t been for Alfred State donating the site. Legislator Decker noted what a great program it is. Committee Chair Hopkins recognized Alfred State College President Dr. Skip Sullivan who attended the meeting and asked if he has any comments to add. Dr. Sullivan stated he is not ready at this time to comment on the contract; however, they are delighted to partner with Allegany County. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Stockin, seconded by Legislator Decker, and carried. Prepare Resolution (to come off the floor at the August 27 Board meeting)
Good of the Order


Casey Jones from Celebrate Recovery addressed concerns he has regarding the Trauma Informed Care Resolution that is being considered at the August 27 Board meeting, stating he does not see where they included agencies outside the government to be included on trauma informed care training. Committee Chair Hopkins stated the resolution states that it encourages all officers, agencies, and employees of Allegany County, the State of New York, and private for profit as well as non-profit organizations in the County to become informed about the impact of traumatic childhood experiences. Ms. Hopkins added the legislature is not allowed to mandate, they can only encourage. Social Services Commissioner Vicki Grant added that the Resolution also states the information be provided to the general public.

Adjournment

There being no further business to come before the committee, the meeting was adjourned at 12:28 p.m. following a motion made by Legislator Decker, seconded by Legislator Havey, and carried.

Respectfully Submitted,
Meghan Washer
Confidential Secretary to Clerk of the Board

Allegany County Ways & Means Committee minutes - August 27, 2018

WAYS & MEANS COMMITTEE
August 27, 2018

Committee Members Present: P. Stockin, P. Curran, D. Decker, D. Healy, J. Hopkins, S. Havey, C. Crandall (Absent: D. Fanton, D. Root)

Others Present: L. Ballengee, G, Barnes, B. Budinger, J. Budinger, W. Dibble, K. Graves, L. Gridley, S. Grusendorf, B. Harris, J. Henry, G. James, C. Jones, C. Knapp, J. Ninos, J. Ricci, B. Riehle, T. Ross, T. Shaw, S. Torrey, M. Washer

Media Present: C. Potter, Wellsville Daily Reporter

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 1:26 p.m. by Ways & Means Committee Chairman Philip Stockin. Approval of Minutes



The August 13, 2018, Ways & Means Committee minutes were approved on a motion made by Legislator Hopkins, seconded by Legislator Havey, and carried.

The August 15, 2018, Ways & Means Committee minutes were approved on a motion made by Legislator Curran, seconded by Legislator Hopkins, and carried.
Approval of Audit

Committee members reviewed the August 27, 2018, audit of claims in the amount of $2,953,003.76 (including prepaid bills). A motion was made by Legislator Curran, seconded by Legislator Havey, and carried to forward the audit to the full Board for approval of payment.

REFERRALS FROM OTHER COMMITTEES
Human Services Committee

Alfred State College Contract

Public Health Director Lori Ballengee requested a resolution to approve a 3-year agreement with Alfred State College to use space in their Health Center for the Reproductive Health Clinic in Alfred and Wellsville. Not only does the space meet all legal requirements, it is exactly the population we need to serve. Alfred State College is donating the space in both locations which is resulting in a significant savings of $15,000+ to the Family Planning/Reproductive Health Budget, and it will also allow greater access to the targeted population for this program. This agreement has been reviewed and approved by the County Administrator and the County Attorney. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Hopkins, seconded by Legislator Healy, and carried. Prepare Resolution (to come off the floor at the August 27 Board meeting)
Personnel Committee
Accountant


Social Services Commissioner Vicki Grant requested permission to fill one full-time Accountant (PEF, Grade 7, Step: Base to 11) position and all subsequent positions including hiring from the outside. This positon is responsible for the claiming of all programs and supervision of the accounting unit. The annual salary of this position is estimated between $42,652 and $59,041 with benefits estimated at 48 percent. This position is funded 27 percent with County funds, 21 percent with State funds, and 52 percent with Federal funds. The filling of this position is contingent on the adoption of the Resolution creating the position that is being considered at the August 27 Board meeting. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Havey, seconded by Legislator Curran, and carried. Notify Human Resources
Public Works Committee
Direct Energy Agreement



Public Works Deputy Superintendent II Justin Henry requested a resolution approving an agreement with Direct Energy to provide natural gas for 2019 and 2020. The fixed price is decreasing from $3.72 Dth to $3.581 Dth. Municipal Electric & Gas Alliance (MEGA) has awarded Direct Energy as their natural gas supplier. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Hopkins, seconded by Legislator Healy, and carried. Prepare Resolution (to come off the floor at the August 27 Board meeting)
Labella Associates Agreement


Mr. Henry also requested a resolution approving an agreement with Labella Associates for the design services of the ground floor. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Decker, seconded by Legislator Curran, and carried. Prepare Resolution
Resource Management Committee

Soil & Water Conservation Contract Extension


Soil & Water Conservation Executive Director Scott Torrey requested an extension of the Allegany County Soil & Water Conservation District’s 3-year contract with Allegany County with the following amounts requested:

2019 County Contribution – $140,000

2020 County Contribution – $142,800 (2 percent increase)

2021 County Contribution – $145,656 (2 percent increase)
Legislator Harris questioned the management of County forestlands stating he has looked at the contract, and it appears to be a significant undertaking. He is concerned that was is outlined in great detail is not what is happening necessarily. Legislator Harris then asked if Mr. Torrey believes his funding is adequate to meet the directives outlined in the contract. Mr. Torrey stated he believes the funding is adequate, adding they handle the boundaries, marking, making sure the properties are maintained, as well as providing some services for timber. Mr. Torrey continued that what they do isn’t going to match the plan specifically because sometimes they run into access issues on properties. Mr. Torrey noted that at this point, County forestlands have been a source of revenue for the County. Legislator Harris then asked how much time is committed to County forestland. Mr. Torrey stated he does not have that information with him at the moment; however, he can provide, down to the hour, how much time is committed. Legislator Harris indicated that he believes the Resource Management Committee should take some time to look at these properties and make sure they are being maintained. The request to extend the Allegany County Soil & Water Conservation District’s 3-year contract was approved on a motion made by Legislator Decker, seconded by Legislator Havey, and carried. Prepare Resolution
STOP-DWI/Youth Bureau Director


STOP-DWI/Youth Bureau Director Linda Edwards requested permission to fill one full-time STOP-DWI/Youth Bureau Director position (Section IV) due to her retirement. This position is responsible for directing the Youth Bureau and STOP-DWI programs. This position is funded 100 percent with County dollars, with $7,052 reimbursed for Youth Bureau towards salary and benefits. Legislator Curran asked if they can have one person occupying both positions. County Treasurer Terri Ross stated there is a stipend in the Section IV Salary Plan that allows these positions to be occupied by one individual, noting that there are other employees in Section IV who also hold two positions. This request was approved on a motion made by Legislator Decker, seconded by Legislator Healy, and carried. Notify Human Resources 
Good of the Order
Majority Leader Dwight "Mike" Healy announced a caucus in room 220 at 1:45 p.m.  
Adjournment  
There being no further business to come before the Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 1:37 p.m. following a motion by Legislator Decker, seconded by Legislator Havey, and carried.

Respectfully submitted,
Meghan Washer, Confidential Secretary to Clerk of the Board
Allegany County Board of Legislators

Allegany County Sheriff's Blotter

Allegany County Sheriff Rick Whitney reports that on August 20, 2018, Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Dylon E. Howard, Age 24, of Cuba on an Allegany County Family Court Warrant.

Howard was located at the Allegany County Court Complex, processed, and arraigned in Allegany County Family Court where he was remanded to the Allegany County Jail with bail set at $100.00 cash. Howard is scheduled to reappear in Allegany County Family Court on September 6, 2018 at 10:15 a.m. for additional court action.

Obituary: Irene M. Conrad, 71, of Spring Hope, NC, formerly of Scio, NY

Irene M. Conrad, 71, of Spring Hope, NC, formerly of Scio, NY, went home to be with our Lord in Heaven on Monday, August 27, 2018 in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY following a brief illness.  Born September 14, 1946, in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of Joseph E. and Kathleen Laughlin Brown.  She shared 39 years together with her loving husband, Edwin M. Conrad, who survives.  She attended Prince of Peace Catholic School in Niagara Falls, NY and Niagara #3.  When her husband drove tractor trailer, she and their two toy poodles, Romeo and Juliet, went along with him and traveled all over the United States.  Rene was devoted to her family and centered her life around them.  She enjoyed crocheting, cooking and baking, decorating cakes, playing solitaire and other games on her tablet.  Surviving besides her husband, Ed, are:  four children, Jennifer M. Phipps of Spring Hope, NC, Jacqueline (Warren) Scrivener of Scio, NY, Joseph N. Lynch of NY, and Edwin M. (Danielle) Conrad, Jr. of Spring Hope, NC;  ten grandchildren, Jonathon D. Phipps, Danielle K. (Chris) Wolske, Breanna M. (Casy) Gates, Joseph (Britney) Lynch, Jacob Lynch, Kaitlyn Lynch, Isaiah Lynch, Michaela Conrad, Jacob Conrad, and Matthew Conrad;  seven great-grandchildren, Mya, Jordan, Carsen, Madison, Logan, Kathleen, and Chasyn;  a brother, Jack E. (Jean) Brown of Scio;  and many nieces and nephews.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Kathleen “Toots” Brown; and a great-grandson, Lucas C. “Lionheart” Wolske.  She also leaves behind her babies, as she called them, Hannah, Buster, Kiki, Snots, and Molly.  She loved all her animals.  Friends and family may call at Mulholland-Crowell Funeral Home, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895 on Saturday, September 1, 2018 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. with Funeral Services following at 3:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the SPCA serving Allegany County, P.O. Box 381, Wellsville, NY 14895, the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org, Gigi’s Playhouse of Rochester at www.gigisplayhouse.org/rochester, or Flower City Down Syndrome Network of Rochester at www.fcdsn.com.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.  

State Police and the Elmira Heights Police Department are looking for the public's assistance

PRESS RELEASE

The Elmira Heights Police Department and the State Police Troop E, Bureau of Criminal Investigation continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of 47-year-old Jason Cicora of 263 Glenwood Avenue, Elmira Heights. Cicora's body was sent to the Monroe County Medical Examiner's Office for an autopsy and investigators are waiting for the final results. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the State Police at (585)-398-4100. 

Exercises to Resume on Korean Peninsula, Mattis Says

By Jim Garamone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Aug. 28, 2018 — The United States and South Korea are lifting the suspension of military exercises on the Korean Peninsula, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis said today.

Mattis made the announcement at a Pentagon news conference with Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Following the summit between President Donald J. Trump and North Korea leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore, the U.S. and South Korea agreed to suspend several of the largest military exercises “as a good-faith measure,” the secretary said.

Denuclearization Negotiations

Negotiations on denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula are on-going and within the realm of the State Department, the secretary said. “We will work very closely, as I said, with the secretary of state, and what he needs done we will certainly do to reinforce his effort,” Mattis said. “But at this time, there is no discussion about further suspensions.”

Smaller military exercises in South Korea continued even after the suspension of the larger exercises, the secretary said. “The reason you've not heard much about them is North Korea could not in any way misinterpret those as somehow breaking faith with the negotiation,” the secretary said. “So the exercises continue. What it means in practical terms is that we're making no changes to the exercise program at this time.”