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News Update for Tues., Sept. 30, 2014

Gerace pleased County has "Hi-Drug Trafficking Area" designation to help fight war against opiate drug dealing and addiction...

Chautauqua County is getting some federal support in it's efforts to beat the opiate drug epidemic... and, drug-related crime.  County officials learned late Monday that the area has been officially been designated as a "High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area."  Gerace says he's pleased the county's received that designation... which he says makes it elgible for additional resources to fight the Heroin "scourge."  That's how U-S Senator Charles Schumer... who announced the designation... termed the new war on drugs.  Gerace says the new tools they'll get at the beginning will be a big help.  In particular... he says they'll be able to use the federal HIDTA Center for undercover work and networking in the "war against drugs."  Gerace thanked Schumer for pushing for the designation... which the Senator says is geared towards improving "coordination among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies."  There has been concern in the past whether any of the resources will filter down to local agencies... but, Gerace says -- in this case -- they will because "we're all in this together."  He says the Heroin epidemic is nationwide.  But... Schumer says Jamestown has seen heroin-related arrests at least triple over the past three years.  City Police Chief Harry Snellings said Monday night he was unaware of the designation... adding "I wasn't in the loop."


Former Gov. Pataki mulling 2016 Presidential run...

Former New York Governor George Pataki is reportedly considering running for president in 2016... though a former aide says talk of a campaign is premature.  The New York Post reported Tuesday that Pataki is privately weighing whether to enter the wide-open Republican field.  The paper says Pataki recently met with major Republican donor David Koch.  Pataki was governor from 1995 to 2006 and was mentioned as a potential presidential contender in the 2008 and 2012 elections.  David Catalfamo, a former top Pataki adviser, says it's premature to talk about his former boss running for president.


Robo Enterprises celebrates 50th Anniversary...

A third-generation family business in the Jamestown-area... and, Dunkirk... is celebrating it's 50th anniversary.  A special celebration took place at one of Robo Enterprises' three Jamestown locations at 111 Marion St. this afternoon.  Employees and patrons enjoyed hot dogs and a 50th anniversary cake.  Managing Partner Kim Carlson called it "a wonderful day... " and, thanked her grandparents and parents for starting up... and, continuing such a great business.  Robo's other Managing Partner... Aaron Beichner... is also a third-generation family member involved with the company.  Beichner started in 2009 when they began their Dunkirk project.  He calls Robo a "great opportunity" for him... and, he looks forward to more expansion.

  

WJTN News Headlines

A problem has arisen with apartment house tenants getting the proper credit for recycling under the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities new incentive program.  One tenant... Guinn Anderson... addressed the City Council at last night's voting session about the problem.  Anderson told lawmakers he has been recycling since the program -- involving new, bar-coded orange bins -- began.  However... he says he's found he's not getting the credit for it... and, is getting charged the full amount for trash collection.  Anderson says he's learned since that while the bins are coded for specific apartments -- they weren't distributed to each apartment. Anderson says he doesn't want to be confrontational... but, does says this is a problem.  A couple of city lawmakers said they had heard about a few such problems in recent times.  Second-Ward Councilman Tony Dolce urged Anderson to address his concern directly to the BPU to see how it can be rectified.  Anderson says tenants need to really pay attention to the bar code number on their garbage bill invoice.  He says they should make sure it matches the bar code on their orange bin.

 

The approximately 200 unionized workers at RHI Monofrax in Jamestown have gone on strike... accusing the company of claiming it doesn't have enough work to support it's workers.  However... the company this year has received a couple of major U-S Department of Energy contracts for ceramic containers over the past year.  An employee who wished to remain anonymous tells us they and Monofrax are far apart on wages and benefits.  He adds the company wants to slash health insurance.  He also says that pension's have been frozen.  Monofrax has laid-off 20 workers during various times in recent months due to "lack of work."  We have calls into Monofrax management officials... and, officials with the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers- Local-#266 for comment... but, have not heard back from them yet.  Local-#266 represents most of the workers at Monofrax.

 

A federal lawmaker, who was key to RHI Monofrax getting the U-S Department of Energy contracts for the nuclear waste containers, believes the local manufacturer is having the work done in Falconer.  Congressman Tom Reed is reacting to worker speculation that the DOE contracts... the most recent one for 2.8-million dollars... are actually being filled by RHI workers overseas.  Reed said Monday that the Energy Department agreements with Monofrax are 'very specific' to the Falconer plant.  He adds that these contracts aren't going to solve all of RHI's problems.
An employee... who did not want to be identified... says RHI has a plant in France that may have been given the work on the public contracts to save money.  However... Reed says that's pretty well-tracked -- and he and the DOE would have known about it.  In the meantime... he remains hopeful that management and the employees can work out their differences... and, keep Monofrax a "viable" company.  RHI Monofrax's contract with it's unionzed workers expired at Midnight Sunday night.

 

Chautauqua County's jobless rate fell last August to 6.1-percent from 6.5-percent in July.  While the workforce numbers have dropped... State Labor Department Analyst John Slenker tells us the number of people who have reached 62 years of age... and, have retired... is also up.  Overall... Slenker says the job count dropped 400 from July to 53-thousand-700 last month.  He adds the number of people working in the county is down by 100 over the year.  Slenker says there were no increase in two major job areas in August. Generally... Slenker says there will be some ongoing weakness through the end of the year due to pending lay-offs at ConAgra's two Carriage House plants in Dunkirk and Fredonia.  Both plants are closing by the end of the year.   Slenker says the unemployment rate is down -- even though the workforce numbes are also down.  He says that's due in part to workers dropping out of the job market.  But... he says the biggest factor recently has been retirements as "Baby Boomers..." and, not replaceing them.  Slenker says the jobless rate in August of last year was 7.3-percent.

 

The unemployment picture in Cattaraugus County is similar to Chautauqua's with a decline in the labor force.  However... the jobless rate is down from 6.6-percent to 6.2 in August.  Labor Analyst John Slenker says the number of people in the work force was down 500 from July to 38-thousand-300.  However... Slenker says that number is down by 12-hundred for the year... mainly due to an aging population.  However... slenker says the actual job count is even for the year... and month... at just under 32-thousand.  Cattaraugus County's jobless rate in August of last year was 7.5-percent.

 

New York has requested federal permission to import out-of-state marijuana so children and young adults with epilepsy can get medication soon instead of waiting for the state to develop its own program.  Acting Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, in letters to the Justice Department, says there's objective evidence that cannabidiol, the active ingredient in marijuana, may help those patients who are suffering and not responding to conventional treatments.  He says New York's medical marijuana program, with tightly regulated cultivation and manufacture within the state, isn't scheduled to start before 2016.  In July, New York became the 23rd state to authorize its use for patients with diseases, including AIDS, cancer and epilepsy.  Health department spokeswoman Emily Pierce says the Justice Department is studying the request.


 

WJTN News Headlines

A problem has arisen with apartment house tenants getting the proper credit for recycling under the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities new incentive program.  One tenant... Guinn Anderson... addressed the City Council at last night's voting session about the problem.  Anderson told lawmakers he has been recycling since the program -- involving new, bar-coded orange bins -- began.  However... he says he's found he's not getting the credit for it... and, is getting charged the full amount for trash collection.  Anderson says he's learned since that while the bins are coded for specific apartments -- they weren't distributed to each apartment. Anderson says he doesn't want to be confrontational... but, does says this is a problem.  A couple of city lawmakers said they had heard about a few such problems in recent times.  Second-Ward Councilman Tony Dolce urged Anderson to address his concern directly to the BPU to see how it can be rectified.  Anderson says tenants need to really pay attention to the bar code number on their garbage bill invoice.  He says they should make sure it matches the bar code on their orange bin.

 

The approximately 200 unionized workers at RHI Monofrax in Jamestown have gone on strike... accusing the company of claiming it doesn't have enough work to support it's workers.  However... the company this year has received a couple of major U-S Department of Energy contracts for ceramic containers over the past year.  An employee who wished to remain anonymous tells us they and Monofrax are far apart on wages and benefits.  He adds the company wants to slash health insurance.  He also says that pension's have been frozen.  Monofrax has laid-off 20 workers during various times in recent months due to "lack of work."  We have calls into Monofrax management officials... and, officials with the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers- Local-#266 for comment... but, have not heard back from them yet.  Local-#266 represents most of the workers at Monofrax.

 

A federal lawmaker, who was key to RHI Monofrax getting the U-S Department of Energy contracts for the nuclear waste containers, believes the local manufacturer is having the work done in Falconer.  Congressman Tom Reed is reacting to worker speculation that the DOE contracts... the most recent one for 2.8-million dollars... are actually being filled by RHI workers overseas.  Reed said Monday that the Energy Department agreements with Monofrax are 'very specific' to the Falconer plant.  He adds that these contracts aren't going to solve all of RHI's problems.
An employee... who did not want to be identified... says RHI has a plant in France that may have been given the work on the public contracts to save money.  However... Reed says that's pretty well-tracked -- and he and the DOE would have known about it.  In the meantime... he remains hopeful that management and the employees can work out their differences... and, keep Monofrax a "viable" company.  RHI Monofrax's contract with it's unionzed workers expired at Midnight Sunday night.

 

Chautauqua County's jobless rate fell last August to 6.1-percent from 6.5-percent in July.  While the workforce numbers have dropped... State Labor Department Analyst John Slenker tells us the number of people who have reached 62 years of age... and, have retired... is also up.  Overall... Slenker says the job count dropped 400 from July to 53-thousand-700 last month.  He adds the number of people working in the county is down by 100 over the year.  Slenker says there were no increase in two major job areas in August. Generally... Slenker says there will be some ongoing weakness through the end of the year due to pending lay-offs at ConAgra's two Carriage House plants in Dunkirk and Fredonia.  Both plants are closing by the end of the year.   Slenker says the unemployment rate is down -- even though the workforce numbes are also down.  He says that's due in part to workers dropping out of the job market.  But... he says the biggest factor recently has been retirements as "Baby Boomers..." and, not replaceing them.  Slenker says the jobless rate in August of last year was 7.3-percent.

 

The unemployment picture in Cattaraugus County is similar to Chautauqua's with a decline in the labor force.  However... the jobless rate is down from 6.6-percent to 6.2 in August.  Labor Analyst John Slenker says the number of people in the work force was down 500 from July to 38-thousand-300.  However... Slenker says that number is down by 12-hundred for the year... mainly due to an aging population.  However... slenker says the actual job count is even for the year... and month... at just under 32-thousand.  Cattaraugus County's jobless rate in August of last year was 7.5-percent.

 

New York has requested federal permission to import out-of-state marijuana so children and young adults with epilepsy can get medication soon instead of waiting for the state to develop its own program.  Acting Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, in letters to the Justice Department, says there's objective evidence that cannabidiol, the active ingredient in marijuana, may help those patients who are suffering and not responding to conventional treatments.  He says New York's medical marijuana program, with tightly regulated cultivation and manufacture within the state, isn't scheduled to start before 2016.  In July, New York became the 23rd state to authorize its use for patients with diseases, including AIDS, cancer and epilepsy.  Health department spokeswoman Emily Pierce says the Justice Department is studying the request.


 

News Update for Mon., Sept. 29, 2014

Some 200 union workers at RHI Monofrax on strike after current contract expires...

Roughly 200 unionized workers at RHI Monofrax in Jamestown have gone on strike... saying the maker of ceramic refectories has not make solid offer on wages and benefits.  One worker we talked with adds the company has also frozen pensions... arguing the company has had it's ups and downs regarding business.  However... workers are questioning that in light of a another U-S Department of Energy contract -- worth $2.8-million -- to make refractories for the nuclear energy industry.  The worker also says Monofrax has laid-off 20 workers "here and there" during various times in recent months due to "lack of work."  We have calls into Monofrax management officials... and, officials with the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers- Local-#266 for comment... but, have not heard back from them yet.  Local-#266 represents most of the workers at Monofrax... and, a smaller union represents abotu 10 employees.


County jobless rate down, but, number of workers also down in August...

Chautauqua County's jobless rate fell last August to 6.1-percent from 6.5-percent in July.  While the workforce numbers have dropped... State Labor Department Analyst John Slenker tells us the number of people who have reached 62 years of age... and, have retired... is also up.  Overall... Slenker says the job count dropped 400 from July to 53,700 last month.  He adds the number of people working in the county is down by 100 over the year.  Slenker says there were no increase in two major job areas in August... one was construction, the other was manufacturing.  Generally... Slenker says there will be some ongoing weakness through the end of 2014 due to pending lay-offs at ConAgra's two Carriage House plants in Dunkirk and Fredonia.  Both plants are closing by the end of the year.   Slenker says the unemployment rate is down -- even though the workforce numbes are also down.  He says that's due in part to workers dropping out of the job market.  But... he says the biggest factor recently has been retirements as "Baby Boomers" reach the ages of 62 and 65.  Slenker says the jobless rate in August of last year was 7.3-percent.


Ripley woman killed in French Creek car accident...

A Ripley woman was killed early yesterday morning when her car went out of control and crashed into a tree off Brownell Road in the town of French Creek.  Sheriff's Deputies say 52 year-old Brenda McClelland of Route 20 was eastbound just after 12:30 a.m. when her vehicle went off the south side of the road.  Officers say McClelland's car then went back onto the road... but... was overcorrected, and crossed over the westbound lane before slamming into a tree on the north side of the road.  Deputies say McClelland was rushed to Corry Memorial Hospital in Pennsylvania where she later died.


Jamestown police still investigating attempted robbery at Brooklyn Square Rite Aid...

City police in Jamestown are still searching for a man who allegedly tried to steal a number of items from Rite Aid store in Brooklyn Square early last Saturday morning.  Officers were called to the scene at 50 South Main St. just before 7:30 a.m. on a report of an attempted robbery.  Police say the man, who is described as being a white male, between the ages of 25 and 30, tried to climb over the pharmacy counter.  Employees add the man was about 6-foot-2 inches tall with a thin build... and, was wearing a dark-green colored hooded sweatshirt, or winter-type coat, black pants, and black and white sneakers.  He was also reportedly carrying a black back-pack-type of bag.  Officers say store employees were able to keep the man from taking any merchandise... or money... and, he fled the store before officers arrived.  If you have any information on the incident, or the suspect, call city police at 483-7537... or the Tips-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.


 

News Alert for Sat., Sept. 27, 2014!!

City police searching for man accused of trying to steal items at Rite Aid in Brooklyn Square...

Jamestown police are looking for a white male in his mid to late 20s who allegedly tried to rob the Rite Aid store in Brooklyn Square early this morning.  Officers were called to the scene at 50 South Main St. about 7:20 a.m. on a report of an attempted robbery.  Police say the man, who is described as being about 6-foot-2 inches tall with a thin build, tried to climb over the pharmacy counter.  They say store employees were able to keep the man from taking any merchandise... or money... and, he fled the store before officers arrived.  Police say the would-be bandit was wearing a dark-green colored hooded sweatshirt, or winter-type coat, black pants, and black and white sneakers.  He was also reportedly carrying a black back-pack-type of bag.  He reportedly did not brandish any weapon.  If you have any information on the incident, or the suspect, call city police at 483-7537... or the Tips-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

News Update for Fri., Sept. 26, 2014

Horrigan explains 34 new jobs proposed in 2015 budget proposal...

While the proposed, 2015 Chautauqua County budget eliminates 197 jobs with the sale of the County Home in Dunkirk... it would add 34 new jobs.  County Executive Vince Horrigan says the $228.6-million spending plan includes a $449,000 spending cut.  Much of the decrease is due to the sale of the County Home... which remains on track to being completed by the end of the year.  Regarding the new positions... Horrigan says nearly 26 of them would being fully-funded.  Of those not receiving funding... Horrigan believes 4.5 positions should create a return on investment... namely for the Planning and Economic Development Dept.  He adds a pilot program for a new position in the public defender program is in process.  The budget does include a tax increase of 9-cents-per $1,000 full value.  Horrigan says the increase in the tax levy will help reduce the amount of funding being taken from reserves.  He says they could pull another $1-million and balance out the budget with no increase... but, adds he's concerned about having reserves for "2016 and beyond."  Horrigan is trying to close a structural budget deficit over the next two years.  He is hoping the aggressive economic development strategy and a growth in sales tax revenues will help close the gap.


Work continues to seat jury for Coggins Trial...

One more juror... and, four alternates... weere still needed this morning for the jury being seated for the trial of the alleged ringleader involved in the murders of a town of Carroll couple in April of last year.  Chautauqua County District Attorney David Foley confirms that 11 jurors were seated by the end of yesterday for the trial of 34 year-old David Coggins.  Jury selection began a week ago last Tuesday in county court.  Coggins... along with three others... are accused of breaking into the home of 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner on Wheeler Hill Road.  The four are also accused of setting the home on fire to try and cover up the crime.


Clarification: No endorsement from County Police Chief's group for sheriff's position...

A clarification on a story we had on Media One News this week:  Republican challenger in the race for Chautauqua County Sheriff Russ Payne has not been endorsed by the county Chiefs of Police Association.  However... Association President -- and Lakewood-Busti Police Chief John Bentley -- says they have endorsed the concept of Central Police Services.  It's an idea that's being pushed by Payne... who is opposing incumbant Democrat Joe Gerace.  However... Bentley says the Chief's group has not endorsed either candidate.


Gas prices down about a penny this week...

Gas prices have dipped about one-cent a gallon this week in the Jamestown area to just under $3.69.  That from the AAA East Central’s Weekly Fuel Gauge report.  The Fuel Gauge reports the average price of regular, unleaded -- based on reports from 19 service stations in the area, was $3.68.8 a gallon.  That's down a fraction of a penny from last week’s average of $3.69.6.  That's down about 8-cents from this time last year.  Meantime... the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline is $3.34 per gallon. 


Ellicott officials say new Pizza Hut restaurant ready to open; one on Foote Ave. to close...

The newest Pizza Hut Restaurant in the Jamestown-area is just about set to open... however... another is going to close.  That from Ellicott Town officials... who say the final walk-though for the new "Wing Street" store on Fairmount Avenue in West Ellicott took place yesterday.  The new store is an entirely new, 2,600 square foot building.  The old building was about 2,000 square feet.  Town Supervisor Cecil Miller says once the new store opens... the one on Foote Avenue will be closing.  Miller says, nationally, they have a new, more modern look.  Demolition of the old Pizza Hut location began a few months ago.  Town Code Enforcement Officer Dave Rowe says the natural gas hook-ups were completed about mid-week... and, the building should be ready for Occupancy by the end of the week.  The new store should be open on or about Oct. 1.


Final preparations for 40th annual Busti Apple Harvest Festival underway...

The 40th annual Busti Apple Harvest Festival is set for this Sunday... and, while it maintains many of it's traditions... the location has continued to undergo significant upgrades through the years.  That from one of the festival's main organizers, Norm Carlson, who says they're excited about this Sunday's event... which will again be held at the Busti Historical Society grounds.  Since the festival began... Carlson says they've seen a "dramatic" expansion of their physical grounds and buildings.  However... many of their long-time demonstrations continue.  But... among the demonstrations taking place this weekend, says Carlson, is wood carving.  World Champion Bird Carver Ralph Sandquist will be displaying some of his prize carvings... and, working on another wood sculpture.  Carlson says they've acquired their current museum building... and, recently got the Miller house.  In addition... they'll also have the usual apple products... pies, and cheeses available to buy -- as long as they last.  The 40th Busti Apple Harvest Festival runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Sunday.

 

WJTN News Headlines

Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan has unveiled his tentative 2015 budget which cuts spending, but also increases the county’s tax rate.  Horrigan's proposed spending plan totals $228.6 million and cuts spending by nearly $449,000. Much of reduction in spending comes from the sale of the Chautauqua County Home in Dunkirk.  With the sale expected to be completed by the end of the year, Horrigan says the County Home has not been included in the 2015 budget. While the move will result in the elimination of 197 positions, Horrigan wants to add 34 new positions including one in area of economic development. Some of the positions will be covered through funding from the state and other sources. The budget closes a $7 million gap, including $2 million in budget cuts.  It also includes a tax increase of 9-cent-per-thousand of market value assessment. The County Legislature is expected to begin its budget review next week.  Lawmakers have until December 1st to adopt a final 2015 county budget.

 

Jamestown Police are investigating a pair of overnight Burglaries that occured on the city's southside.  All that is being reported at this time is that they happened at 2:40 and 3am.  Police are investigating and we'll pass along more details when they become available.

 

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill a family member... who then drove off to get away from the suspect... and, wound up involved in a two-car accident.  City police were called to the scene of the crash at the intersection of West Seventh and Washington Streets just before 5:30 PM yesterday.  Officers learned that 24 year-old Andrew Panebianco attacked the unidentified victim inside the vehicle... then threatened to kill that person.  Police says the victim -- who was fearing for their safety -- was able to drive away... but, the car went into the path of another vehicle... which was northbound on Washington Street.  Officers say the victim was taken to WCA Hospital for treatment.  No other injuries were reported.  Panebianco was charged with menacing... second-degree reckless endangerment... and, criminal mischief.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

 

Two men face drug charges in Cattauragus County following a bust early last Tuesday night.  The Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and Sheriff's deputies executed a search warrant about 8 PM at 3601 South Authority Road in the town of Great Valley... and, arrested 35 year-old Carl Simmons of the same address and 32 year-old Raymond Jemmison of Buffalo.  The two allegedly were in possession of approximately 6 grams of crack cocaine, marijuana and suspected heroin.  Simmons and Jemmison were taken to the Cattaraugus County Jail and committed in lieu of 75-hundred dollars bail.  The Seneca Nation Marshalls Office also assisted with the arrests.

 

An Olean man has been sentenced to 7-years and six-months -- or 90 months -- in federal prison after his conviction for possessing child pornography.  That from U-S Attorney William Hochul, Jr.... who says 47 year-old Willie Reid was given the term in U-S District Court Tuesday by Judge Richard Arcara.  Hochul says the case was prosecuted by Assistant U-S Attorney Marie Grisanti.  Grisanti says Reid was found in possession of more than 600 images on a computer and hard drive he owned back on May 2nd of last year while he was working as a nurse at Olean General Hospital.

 

The Local Motorcycle Club 'The Axemen' are looking for your help to "Help Fill The Bus" this Saturday at Friendly's Restaraunt in Brooklyn Square.  The group is made up of professional firefighters.  Local "Axemen" President Shawn Shilling says they are looking for school supplies to help both the students and teachers in the Jamestown Public School System.  Shilling says they are looking for donations of. Shilling says if you can't make it Saturday there are other places donations can be dropped off - just look for the Board of Public Utilities Recycle Bins at the Jamestown Police and Fire Departments, Southside Redemption, and the Chautauqua Striders Headquarters.  The Axemen are a local motorcycle club made up of professional firefighters from four unions around Southwestern New York.  Fill The Bus takes place this Saturday from 9 to 3pm at the Brooklyn Square Friendly's restaraunt in Jamestown. 

 

A Jamestown man is in jail following a domestic incident that ended in the middle of the street. Police were reponding to the report just after 5:30pm Tuesday when they witnessed a female run from a residence at 77 Allen Street and into the traffic lane in the area of Foote and Victoria Avenue's.  26 year old William Blakey of Jamestown then allegedly pushed the female victim to the street causing several cars to stop and swerve around them.  Blakey faces a number of charges including 2nd Degree Reckless Endagerment, Harrasment and Disorderly Conduct. Blakey was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

 

A new poll shows Governor Andrew Cuomo continues to hold a big lead over challenger Rob Astorino in New York's governor's race.  Fifty-four percent of likely voters in the survey support Cuomo's re-election bid.  Twenty-nine percent favor Astorino, the Republican Westchester County executive, and nine percent back Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins. The poll also found that Cuomo -- the Democrat incumbant's -- approval rating is 42 percent among registered voters.  That's down from 47 the month before and matching his lowest rating since taking office.

 


 

WJTN News Headlines

A Mayville woman has been arrested for allegedly trying to set fire to a multiple-unit apartment house in the village last weekend.  Sheriff's Deputies were called to the scene on South Erie Street shortly before 9 PM Saturday... and, learned someone had tried to commit arson while people were inside the dwelling.  Officers investigated... and, arrested 40 year-old Brenda Harper.  Deputies say Harper is charged with second-degree attempted arson... and first-degree reckless endangerment.  She was arraigned in Chautauqua Town Court... and, sent to the county jail without bail.

 

A north county woman escaped serious injury after her car went off York Road in the town of Hanover Road... and crashed into a shallow pond.  Sheriff's Deputies say the vehicle... driven by 24 year-old Liana Halliman of Forestville... left the roadway about 3:30 AM Saturday... and, went through a front lawn and entered a small, shallow pond -- becoming partially submerged.  Officers say Halliman was helped out of the vehicle by the homeowner at the scene.  Further investigation found Halliman was drunk... and, she was charged with driving while intoxicated... having a blood alcohol level of point-18 or higher... and, failure to keep right.  She was processed in Hanover Town Court, and released pending a future court appearance.

 

Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan says his first budget proposal... which will be made at this week's County Legislature meeting... will be brought in under the 2-percent property tax cap.  That's the first hint Horrigan has given as to how the tax levy... and, tax rates... will look in next year's spending plan.  However... the legislature will have to approve a final budget by December 1st.  Horrigan said -- in a prepared statement early last weekend -- that by "using our fund balance... it will keep the 2015 budget under the property tax cap to provide relief to our County taxpayers."  Earlier... he told us that's due to anticipated proceeds from sale of the County Home in Dunkirk. The sale of the County Home to VestraCare of Long Island is expected to be completed by the end of the year.  The final sale price is 16-million dollars... but, extra revenue will be a good deal less than because there is some debt from the home that must be paid off.  Otherwise... he says the 2015 budget focuses on "investing in an offensive economic development strategy, protecting our watersheds, coordinating health care and substance abuse initiatives... and, implementing cost containment resources to target welfare fraud and rising public defender costs."

 

New York's comptroller reports state tax collections through the first five months of the current fiscal year were 26.9-billion dollars.  Democrat Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said last weekend tax revenues were slightly higher than projected... while the state received some 3.5-billion dollars from financial settlements, most of that unexpected.  DiNapoli says the state government's cash position is strong.  His office's monthly cash report shows overall tax receipts are 1.3 percent less than a year earlier.  He says all but 300-million dollars of the settlement funds were unanticipated.

 


California is poised to become first in the nation to enact a statewide ban on single-use grocery-store plastic bags... and, local advocates say New York is working to keep pace.  The New York City Council meeting was the focus of an "Advocacy Day" this past week... and, Attorney Jennie Romer with 'PlasticBagLaws.org' says more than 100 students from eight local schools spoke to council members in support of a measure to impose a similar fee in the city for plastic bag use. Romer says the measure is headed to the city council's Sanitation Committee.  She says communities from Long Island to Westchester will be keeping a close eye on the council action as they work to impose similar measures across the state.

 

A Jamestown teenager is jailed following a suspicious incident in an area of the city where it's most recent shooting incident took place.  City police were called to the scene at the Appleyard Terrace Housing units at 633 East Second late last Friday night on a report of suspicious persons smoking marijuana.  Officers say a 16 year-old boy ran from the scene during the investigation.  Police chased down the teen... and, arrested him.  Officers say the unidentified boy was charged with obstructing governmental administration... and, is being held pending arraignment.

 

About 4,000 people packed Steele Hall late last week to see Bill Nye "the Science Guy " at the SUNY College at Fredonia deliver the campus' annual Convocation Series.  His focus was on "You can change the world."  But... he also answered a number of questions about his career as a scientist... engineer... author... and, inventor.  Neye also spoke about his childhood hero... Mr. Wizzard... Don Hurbert. Nye, who followed Hubert onto the small screen in the 1980s and 1990s, entered a different arena... the TV dance floor.  He was asked about his appearance on ABC's Dancing with the Stars, and whether he enjoyed it.  However... he says it was disappointing that he had to drop out due to an injury.  Nye says producers told him he needed to "clear his schedule" because they really have to focus during the competition.  He says he's still recovering from the injury... but, would welcome a return to the highly rated TV show.  Funding for Fredonia’s annual Convocation keynote address is provided by the Maytum Lecture Endowment... and, the Williams Visiting Professorship Endowment.

News Update for Sat., Sept 20, 2014

Horrigan says spending plan he proposes will be within 2-percent property tax cap...

Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan will present his first budget proposal at next Wednesday night's county legislature meeting.  Horrigan this weekend is revealing a little more about the approximately $240-million spending plan.  The Bemus Point Republican says in a statement issued late Friday that "by using our available fund balance... it will keep the 2015 budget under the property tax cap to provide relief to our County taxpayers."  That fund balance is being helped this year by the sale of the County Home in Dunkirk to VestraCare of Long Island... which is expected to close on the 16-million dollar sale by the end of the year.  Horrigan calls the proposed budget one of the most "important responsibilities" he has.  He says it focuses on "investing in an offensive economic development strategy, protecting our watersheds, coordinating health care and substance abuse initiatives, privatizing the County Home, and implementing cost containment resources to target welfare fraud and rising public defender costs."  Next Wednesday's meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.  Lawmakers must approve a budget by December 1st.


Gerace details proposed 2015 spending...

Salary hikes and an increase in the Chautauqua County Jail population is driving a just over 4-percent increase in the Sheriff's Department budget.  That from Sheriff Joe Gerace... who outlined his proposed spending in the 2015 budget for county lawmakers this week.  Gerace addressed the legislature's Public Safety Committee... and, says the biggest part of the 4.1-percent increase is salary hikes built into union contracts.  Gerace adds the other big cost for his department is operation of the County Jail in Mayville... which has been filled to capacity more than a few times in the past several months.  He says that's forced him to cut projected 2015 revenues because they won't likely be able to house as many federal inmates as in the past.  The county gets a set reimbursement for housing those prisoners.  In fact... they've had so many local inmates -- due mainly to the opiate drug crisis -- they've had to send some to neighboring counties.


Miller says work on Ellicott Budget begins this coming week...

Work will begin next week on preparing the town of Ellicott's 2015 budget... which will be the final one for town Supervisor Cecil Miller.  Miller announced earlier this week that he is resigning from the town's top-elected position next December 31st after seven years.  He says budget's have been challenging with increasing health and pension costs in recent years... but, add this will be a "particularily difficult" spending plan because they have to pay off sick time for some retirees.  Miller adds that while the state pension contribution rate is going down in 2015... that doesn't mean their costs will go down much -- if at all.  Miller adds that he already has a likely successor in mind.  It's a current member of the town board who has not been identified at this point.  He says he and that person will soon sit down and begin going over budget plans from town department heads... and, try to work out a budget that's under the state's 2-percent property tax cap.


NY Business Council hears from Cuomo...

Governor Andrew Cuomo says New York state should use some of its budget surplus to spur upstate economic development... and, encourage local governments to consolidate and share their services.  The Democrat told the Business Council of New York Friday that he wants to use $1.5-billion on local economic development programs similar to his administration's current ``Buffalo Billion'' initiative.  Cuomo also proposed using 500-million dollars to help local governments that consolidate or share services in an effort to reduce property taxes.  State officials announced last month that the state has a $4.2-billion surplus, thanks largely to sizeable legal settlements with banks and insurance companies.


Two hurt in one-car crash in town of Poland...

Two men are being treated for non-life threatening injuries the the car they were riding in swerved to avoid a deer... and, the vehicle slammed into a culvert late Thursday night in the town of Poland.  Sheriff's Deputies say 22 year-old Jeremy Zimmerman, of Salamanca, was westbound on Route 394 about 11:40 p.m. when the deer crossed in front of his vehicle.  Officers say Zimmerman's car went into a ditch and struck a the culvert -- heavily damaging the vehicle.  Both Zimmerman and his passenger... Fallan Robert of Gerry... were able to get out of the vehicle safely following the crash.  They were treated at the scene... and, taken to WCA Hospital for further treatment of their injuries.

WJTN News Headlines

A two-year Amish child has died in a fire in the top floor of a three-story farmhouse in the town of Busti -- near the Harmony town line.  Busti Fire Chief Mike Volpe last night identified the child as Eli Shetler.  Volpe says crews were called to the scene at 4835 Kortwright Road just after 2 PM... and, found heavy, black smoke coming from the upper stories.  He told our Terry Frank at the scene they quickly called for mutual aid because a number of family members were reportedly trapped inside. Volpe says the rest of the family members got out safely.  He says 12 mutual aid companies responded to help at the scene.  Volpe adds a "mayday" was put out for a couple of firefighters after a floor collapsed under them.  Volpe says other volunteers were able to pull the two men out... and, they suffered only very minor injuries.  At that point... he says they went to a defensive posture to attack the fire.  The blaze was deemed under control about 3:30 PM.  Volpe says toddler was found dead on the third-floor.  He says county fire investigators have determined the blaze was caused by children playing with matches. 

 

Fire Crews were busy fighting a barn fire in Panama Thursday night.  Chautauqua County Dispatch reports that Panama Firefighters were called out to 6024 Randolph Road just before 10:30.  Crews had the fire out quicly after the barn collapsed.  Investigators determined the cause of the blaze was sparked by a small garbage fire nearby that had been left unattended. No Injuries were reported. Ashville and Bear Like assisted at the scene.

 

A Jamestown man arrested earlier this month during a major Heroin bust on East Second Street... has again been arrested for allegedly dealing the narcotic just across the city line in the village of Falconer.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says 37 year-old Cesar Santiago was arrested Wednesday afternoon as part of the department's on-going investigation into drug trafficking in the Greater Jamestown area.  Samuelson says the new Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force had obtained a search warrant for a room at the Budget Inn in downtown Falconer. Samuelson says Santiago was one of five people arrested back on September 3rd at an alleged Heroin trafficking operation at an apartment house at 10-91 East Second Street in Jamestown.  During that bust... Santiago was arrested with three others for allegedly using a vacant apartment to deal drug from.  Samuelson says he bailed himself out... and, allegedly "set up shop" in Falconer.  The State Police C-NET Team was also involved in this investigation that led to Santiago's arrest.  Samuelson says Santiago was arraigned on one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, sent to the county jail without bail.

 

There are now six jurors seated for the murder trial of the alleged ringleader involved in the deaths of two town of Carroll residents in April of last year.  Chautauqua County District Attorney David Foley says two more people were selected for the panel Thursday for the trial of 34 year-old David Coggins.  So far... the panel is made up of six men.  Jury selection began Tuesday in county court.  Coggins... along with three others... are accused of breaking into the home of 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner on Wheeler Hill Road.  The four are also accused of setting the home on fire to try and cover up the crime.  All four men had been initially charged with two counts each of second-degree murder.

 

Some major, underground utility work has been completed... and, the new road base and surface will soon be put down on West Fifth Street in Jamestown.  The major thorough-fare in the city has been closed this Summer for a complete reconstruction.  Jamestown Public Works Director Jeff Lehman says he appreciates motorists patience... because it's about to be rewarded. Lehman says -- with the Board of Public Utilities -- they completely replaced the water line between Fairmount Avenue and Washington Street.  He adds National Fuel and Windstream also did some major utility work on the street as well that added time to the project.  Just recently... Lehman says DPW crews milled West Third from the Sixth Street Bridge to Fairmount in conjunction with the Fifth Street reconstruction.  Once the final top coat is put on West Fifth from the bridge to Washington Street... the road will be reopened.

 

The city's Public Works Department is in the process of finishing off some 90 Summer construction projects... most of them road reconstruction or re-surfacing projects.  DPW Director Jeff Lehman says... despite a rainy Summer... they were able to stay pretty much on schedule.  The rain did interrupt completion of one project recently.  That's the resurfacing of West Second Street from Washington to Main Streets.  Lehman adds they're also finishing up work on Sixth Street.  He adds that a portion of the westside of Second Street is now being repaved Saturday.  Inclement weather did not allow that last weekend.  Late yesterday morning... Lehman also announced the DPW will begin doing further road construction on Lakeview Avenue from Falconer and Crossman Streets next Monday.  He says that portion of Lakeview will be closed to through traffic until the project is completed.  Motorists are asked to use alternate routes.

News Update for Thurs. night, Sept. 18, 2014

Young Amish boy now identified as victim of fatal Busti fire...

A two-year Amish child has died in a fire in the top floor of a three-story farmhouse in the town of Busti -- near the Harmony town line.  Busti Fire Chief Mike Volpe last night identified the child as Eli Shetler.  Volpe says crews were called to the scene at 4835 Kortwright Road just after 2 p.m., and, says they quickly called for mutual aid because a number of family members were reportedly trapped inside the burning home.  Volpe says firefighters initially tried to make an entry to the second and third-floors... but, were turned back by the intensity of the flames.  He says they tried again later... and, were still looking for the toddler early this evening.  All other family members got out okay.  Two firefighters also escaped serious injury when part of a floor gave way.

News Update, Thurs., Sept. 18, 2014

Toddler unaccounted for in Amish farmhouse fire in Busti; several fire departments called to fire scene...

A young child is unaccounted for after flames broke out on the second-floor of a two-and-a-half story Amish farmhouse in the town of Busti -- near the Harmony town line.  Busti Fire Chief Mike Volpe says crews were called to the scene at 4835 Kortwright Rd. just after 2 p.m.  Volpe says they quickly called out for mutual aid because a number of family members were reportedly trapped inside the burning home.  Volpe says firefighters initially tried to make an entry to the second-floor but, were turned back by the flames.  He says they tried again later... and, were still looking for the toddler early this evening.  Volpe says the rest of the family members escaped the flames safely.  He says multiple fire companies were called in due to a need for manpower... and, tanker trucks to help get water to the scene.  Volpe adds a "Mayday" was put out for a couple of volunteers while firefighters were inside the structure when the floor collapsed.  The firefighters were pulled out safely with very minor injuries... but, Volpe says the situation was "hairy for a few mintues."  At that point... he says they went to a defensive posture to attack the fire.  The blaze was deemed under control about 3:30 p.m.  The search for the toddler was still underway as of 5 p.m.

 

News Update for Thurs., Sept. 18, 2014

Several fire departments at town of Busti fire scene...

Chautauqua County fire dispatchers say multiple-fire companies are at the scene of a structure fire on Kortwright Road in Busti.  Dispatchers say Busti fire crews were called to 4835 Kortwright Road just after 2 p.m.  Several mutual aid companies were also called in to assist at the scene.  More when it becomes available.


City man arrested during previous drug bust on Jamestown eastside arrested again for trafficking Heroin...

A city man who was arrested during a major Heroin bust on East Second Street earlier this month... has again been arrested for allegedly trafficking the drug.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says 37 year-old Cesar Santiago was arrested yesterday afternoon at the city line with Falconer as part of the department's on-going investigation into drug trafficking in the Greater Jamestown area.  Samuelson says the new Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force had obtained a search warrant for a room at the Budget Inn in Falconer... but, caught Santiago during a traffic stop just prior to a planned raid with 50 bags of Heroin in his possession.

 

WJTN News Headlines

Four jurors have now been seated for the murder trial of the alleged ringleader involved in the deaths of two town of Carroll residents in April of last year.  Chautauqua County Commissioner of Jurors Kathleen Krauza says two more men were selected to the panel Wednesday for the trial of 34 year-old David Coggins.  Jury selection began Tuesday in county court.  Coggins... along with three others... are accused of breaking into the home of 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner on Wheeler Hill Road.  The four are also accused of setting the home on fire to try and cover up the crime.  So far... two of the accomplices -- all from Elmira, New York -- have accepted plea deals in return for a break in sentencing.  All four had been charged with two counts each of second-degree murder.

 

A woman who bought the guns used by her former neighbor to kill two upstate New York firefighters on Christmas Eve of 2012 have been sentenced to eight years in federal prison.  A federal judge on Wednesday handed down the sentence to Dawn Nguyen (WIHN)... who's already in state prison for up to four years on related charges.  The state and federal prison sentences will run concurrently.  Nguyen has admitted to buying a semi-automatic rifle and shotgun in 2010 for William Spengler Jr., a felon prohibited from owning weapons.  More than two years later, Spengler fatally shot his sister, set fire to his West Webster home and ambushed responding firefighters. He shot four, killing two, before committing suicide.  Nguyen on Wednesday apologized to West Webster firefighters who showed up in court.

 

A serious two-car accident on Route 62 in the town of Kiantone Wednesday morning sent two Jamestown-area residents to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene about 5:45 AM... and, their investigation found that 48 year-old Radha Latona of Kiantone was northbound when she entered the southbound lane... and, struck the second car, driven by 67 year-old Douglas Bergstrom of Jamestown, head on.  Deputies say Latona had to be freed from her vehicle with a hurst tool.  Both Latona and Bergstrom were initially taken to WCA Hospital for treatment... then flown to UPMC-Hamot due to the seriousness of their injuries. The investigation is ongoing and charges may be filed at a later time.

 

The date has been formally set for the official renaming of the county airport near Jamestown after late U-S Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson.  Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan will preside over the ceremony on Saturday, October 4th, beginning at 10 AM.  Horrigan says the new name will be The Greater Chautauqua-Jamestown Airport -- Robert H. Jackson Field.  He says the airport terminal was previously dedicated in Jackson's honor in June of 1973... and, now the airport's runways and surround grounds will be named in his honor. Horrigan says having the plane there also celebrates the 70th anniversary of the invasion of Normandy.  He says the C-47 will land at the airport just before the ceremony to name the field after Jackson... who grew up in Frewsburg... and, was chief Prosecutor at the Nuremburg War Crimes Trial following World War-Two.  Horrigan says there's also a third part to the program on October 4th.  The county will officially welcome Sun Air Express... which will be the county's new aircarrier. Silver Airways has continued service to and from Cleveland during the interim period.  Silver early announced it would be ending air service earlier this year.  However... with Sun Air not moving in until October 1st... Silver said it would continue service until that time.

 

Two Amish children were seriously hurt when the buggy they were riding early Monday night in the Cattaraugus County town of Leon (Lee-in) was hit from behind by a pick-up truck.  Sheriff's Deputies in Little Valley say the horse and buggy was southbound on Route 62 about 5:30 PM when it was struck by the truck... driven by 33 year-old Peter Riley of Route 62.  Officers say the buggy's occupants... Marie Miller and her one-year old... and, 5-week old sons... were all thrown from the buggy.  Officers say Miller suffered minor injuries... while the one-year old suffered a cut to the eye.  They add the 5-week old suffered multiple skull fractures.  All four were taken to Brook's Memorial Hospital for treatment.  Officers say the one-year old was transferred to Women and Children's Hospital in buffalo.  The investigation is continuing.

 

New York is working to make it easier to get checked for hepatitis C.  Governor Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday signed a new law that will allow qualified registered nurses to administer hepatitis C tests.  Before the change... registered nurses could only give the test to specific patients as directed by a doctor or nurse practitioner.  Cuomo says the old rules created ``unnecessary barriers'' to testing.  He says early detection of the illness can help patients get treatment faster.  Last year... the state began requiring hospitals and doctors to offer hepatitis C to patients born between 1945 and 1965, a group who are at greater risk of having hepatitis C.

 

Bad road conditions from our past Winter haven't been exclusive to New York state.  There have been rough road conditions through-out Warren County, Pennsylvania as well.  We've heard a few complaints about the roads... but, Pine Grove Township Supervisor Charlie Morrison says their crews have been working as fast as they can to get roads up to par.  Morrison says they just finished up work Wednesday on Gould Town Road. Morrison says... weather permitting... they'll be moving onto Norberg Road -- near the Cable Hollow Golf Course.  He says the worst road they've worked on yet is Stanton Hill Road... where the bottom was completely washed out.  That's been temporarily repaired... and, Morrison says crews will be returning to that shortly.  If residents have concerns about roads -- or other town issues -- he urges them to attend their regular meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at the town hall at 7 PM.  As for State roads... like Route 957... Morrison says Pennsylvania Department of Transportation crews have been patching that -- mainly from Route 62 to Corry.

News-Sports Update for Wed., Sept. 17, 2014

NFL committee approves Bills sale to Pagulas; full NFL owners vote still pending...

Buffalo Sabres owners Terry and Kim's Pegula's bid to buy the Buffalo Bills for an NFL-record $1.4 billion was unanimously approved by the league's finance committee.  The vote conducted today clears the way for NFL owners to formally approve the sale at league meetings next month.  The Pegulas will require three-quarters majority approval from the 32 owners... including the trust overseeing late Bills owner Ralph Wilson's estate.  NFL executive vice president Eric Grubman provided the update shortly after the Pegulas' bid was approved at the meeting in New York.  Terry Pegula made a brief statement confirming the committee's approval, but declined to go into detail.  Pegula is remaining cautious by saying he and his wife aren't Bills owners until getting full league approval.

News alert for Wed., Sept. 17, 2014

(**Alert)BPU flushing water lines in town of North Harmony...

There may be some discolored water in Lakewood today due to water main flushing in an area of the town of North Harmony this morning.  Board of Public Utilities Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says the lines will be flushed in the area from Sunrise Cove -- near the Ashville BOCES -- to Goose Creek.  Again... this may case some unsettled water on mainly the westside of Lakewood today.


Two Jamestown area residents seriously hurt in two-car crash in Kiantone...

A serious two-car accident on Route 62 in the town of Kiantone this morning sent two Jamestown-area residents to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene about 5:45 a.m., and, their investigation found that 48 year-old Radha Latona of Kiantone was northbound when she entered the southbound lane... and, struck the second car, driven by 67 year-old Douglas Bergstrom of Jamestown, head on.  Deputies say Latona had to be freed from her vehicle with a hurst tool.  Both Latona and Bergstrom were initially taken to WCA Hospital for treatment... then flown to UPMC-Hamot due to the seriousness of their injuries. The investigation is ongoing and charges may be filed at a later time.

WJTN News Headlines

Chautauqua County Sheriff's report a car accident with injury at Route 62 and Riverside Road. The accident happened just after 5:30am.  Not much information is available yet as crews are still heading to the scene.  They do ask anyone travelling to avoid that area.  Again that's the area of Route 62 and Riverside Road.  We will have more details as they become available.

 

A routine traffic stop in Jamestown late Monday night ended with two men being arrested for allegedly possessing "crack" cocaine... and, one with intent to sell it.  City police pulled over a car... being driven by 48 year-old Timothy Hopkins of Celoron... for allegedly failing to signal a turn on Falconer Street at Dunn Avenue just after 11 PM.  Officers say they discovered the front seat passenger, 37 year-old Daryel Cotton of Buffalo, was in possession of a quantity of "crack" cocaine packaged for sale.  Police add that Hopkins was in possession of a small amout of "crack."  Cotton was arraigned on one count of Felony third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, sent to the county jail without bail.  Hopkins was charged with simple possession... and, released pending further court action.  Anyone with information on the sale or possession of illegal narcotics is asked to call the City Police Tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

Three young Fredonia men have been arrested for allegedly robbing the occupants of an apartment in the village with hammers last month.  Sheriff's officers says they concluded a lengthy investigation into the break-in last August 19th with the arrests of 20 year-old Stephen Meyers of Curtis Street... and, 19 year-old Justin Schreier... and, 18 year-old John Dewey -- both of 60 Temple Street.  Deputies say the trio entered the home at 42 Eagle Street... and, threatened the occupants before having them lay on the floor.  Officers say they took some money... and, a backpack with unknown contents.  After further investigation by the Sheriff's Office... warrants were issued for the three men on charges including first-degree robbery... first-degree burglary... and, second-degree menacing.  They were arraigned in Fredonia Village Court... and, sent to the county jail on 60-thousand dollars cash bail each.

 

The Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites... and, protect themselves from possible exposure to Eastern Equine Encephalitis.  That after the local Health Department was notified Tuesday by state officials that a mosquito pool in the south county tested positive for the "Triple-E" Virus.  County Health Department Director of Environmental Health... Mark Stow... says this comes after Triple-E was found in the area last year, as well. County Health and Human Services director Christine Schuyler says -- statewide -- the West Nile Virus has been reported in 10 humans... and, Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus has been reported in one human... with no deaths attributed to either virus so far this year.  Stow urges people to safeguard against this illness by taking basic precautions... though it is late in the season.  He says once we have a hard frost... that will take out most of the adult mosquitos.  Aside from staying indoors between dusk and dawn... Stow says people living near large mosquito populations should use insect repellent -- especially one with DEET.  Also... if you have to be outside... wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes and socks as weather permits.  The health department adds you should get rid of areas of standing water.

 

A lit cigarette igniting some combustables is the apparent cause of an early morning blaze Tuesday in a mobile home in the town of Portland.  Portland firefighters were called to the scene at the New Horizon's Trailer Park on Route 5 about 3 AM.  Firefighters from Portland, Westfield and East Dunkirk, assisted Portland along with the county's Emergency Services Department in battling the smoky blaze.  Fire officials say the occupants of the trailer were able to exit without injury.  The local Red Cross is assisting the family that lived there with emergency needs.

 

Local Congressman Tom Reed says just over a year's worth of work on an advanced manufacturing bill he co-authored has come to fruition.  The House late Monday night approved the "Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act."  The measure was Co-Sponsored by Reed... and, Massachusetts Democrat Joe Kennedy.  The Corning Republican says the unanimous approval of RAMI is "great news..." and, he says the move is now to have the Senate pass it. President Obama has indicated that he will sign the measure... which he spoke about during the State of the Union address last March.  Reed says RAMI will focus on new manufacturing concepts... and, supporting those in regional centers where new ideas will move from being a concept to commercial reality.  Reed feels there are centers... and, people with the ideas in the 23rd Congressional District to make the region competitive for the 300-million dollars that'll be used to help support moving innovative ideas forward.  Grants for the funding will come from the Energy Efficiency and Renewables Account in the federal budget.

 

A long-time elected official in the town of Ellicott has announced his resignation effective the end of the year.  Town Supervisor Cecil Miller announced that he will be stepping down from the position he's held the past seven years as of December 31st.  Miller had been a board member for eight years before that when he decided to run against former Supervisor Pat Tyler in 2007.  He says he felt the town needed to go in a different direction... but, adds he never wanted to be a supervisor for the rest of his life. However... Miller says a current town board member has expressed an interest in succeding him... so, it all goes as planned... that person will take over in January of 2015.  He would not say who is was, though the name has been given to board members.  Miller feels he's leaving the town in good hands... and, adds he's glad he fought to keep the town police department intact despite criticism over the cost.

 


Plans to rebuild a landmark venue at the Chautauqua Institution are reportedly causing a rift between preservationists and the organization.  The Buffalo News reports today (Tuesday) that the institution plans to tear down most of the 120-year-old amphitheater after the 2015 season ends next September and replace it with a modern replica.  The 30-million dollar project will increase seating capacity from just over 4,000 to 4,500. It's expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2016 season.  Chautauqua Institution officials say the upgrades are needed to make the venue safer and more comfortable.  Preservationists agree that improvements are overdue, but they're questioning whether demolition of most of the venue is required.  Lectures by leading political figures and performances by national acts are held in the amphitheater during the institution's annual nine-week summer season.

News Update for Tues., Sept. 16, 2014

Two men arrested for allegedly possessing, and looking to traffic "crack" cocaine during traffic stop...

Two men were arrested late Monday night in Jamestown for allegedly being in possession of "crack" cocaine.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson adds that one had the intent of selling it.  Samuelson says officers pulled over a car... being driven by 48 year-old Timothy Hopkins of Celoron... for allegedly failing to signal a turn on Falconer Street at Dunn Avenue.  Officers say they discovered the front seat passenger, 37 year-old Daryel Cotton of Buffalo, was in possession of a quantity of "crack" cocaine packaged for sale.  Police add that Hopkins was in possession of a small amount of "crack."  Cotton was charged with Felony third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... while Hopkins was charged with seventh-degree possession.  Cotton was sent to the county jail without bail... while Hopkins was released pending further court action.  Anyone with information on the trafficking of illegal narcotics is asked to call the City Police Tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.


Sheriff's Deputies arrest trio for alleged robbery in village of Fredonia...

Three young Fredonia men have been arrested for allegedly robbing the occupants of an apartment in the village with hammers last month.  Sheriff's officers says they concluded a lengthy investigation into the break-in last Aug. 19 with the arrests of 20 year-old Stephen Meyers of Curtis Street... and, 19 year-old Justin Schreier... and, 18 year-old John Dewey -- both of 60 Temple Street.  Deputies say the trio entered the home at 42 Eagle Street... and, threatened the occupants before having them lay on the floor.  Officers say they took some money... and, a backpack with unknown contents.  After further investigation by the Sheriff's Office... warrants were issued for the three men on charges including first-degree robbery... first-degree burglary... and, second-degree menacing.  They were arraigned in Fredonia Village Court... and, sent to the county jail on $60,000 bail each.


Reed hails House passage of RAMI Bill he co-authored...

Chautauqua County's congressman says just over a year's worth of work on an advanced manufacturing bill he co-authored has come to fruition.  The House late Monday night approved the "Revitalize American Manufacturing and Innovation Act."  The measure was co-sponsored by Corning Republican Tom Reed... and, Massachusetts Democrat Joe Kennedy.  Reed says the unanimous approval of RAMI is "great news..." and, he says the move is now to have the Senate pass it.  He says there is excitement growing there... where there is Republican and Democrat co-sponsors.  It would then move onto the president for his signature.  President Obama has indicated that he will sign the measure... which he spoke about during the State of the Union address last March.  Reed says RAMI will focus on new manufacturing concepts... and, supporting those in regional centers where the idea will move from being a concept to commercial reality.  Reed feels there are centers... and, the people with the ideas in the 23rd Congressional District to make the region competitive for the $300-million that'll be used to help support moving innovative manufacturing ideas from concept to reality.  Grants for the funding will come from the Energy Efficiency and Renewables Account in the federal budget.


Lit cigarette triggers trailer fire in Portland...

A lit cigarette igniting some combustables is the apparent cause of an early morning blaze in a mobile home fire in the town of Portland.  Portland firefighters were called to the scene at the New Horizon's Trailer Park on Route 5 about 3 a.m.  Firefighters from Portland, Westfield and East Dunkirk, assisted Portland along with the county's Emergency Services Department in battling the smoky blaze.  Fire officials say the occupants of the trailer were able to exit without injury.  The local Red Cross is assisting the family that lived there with emergency needs.


 

News Update for Mon., Sept. 15, 2014

State Police investigating fatal car crash in Warren County...

A Warren County, PA woman was killed yesterday afternoon when her car was struck head-on by another vehicle on Mathews Run Road in Sugar Grove Township.  State Police in Warren say 72 year-old Jeanette Ickes of Youngsville was southbound just after 3 p.m. when her car was struck by the other vehicle.  Troopers say the other driver, 54 year-old Laurie Steber of Sugar Grove, was northbound on Mathews Run when her car went into the on-coming lane of traffic for an unknown reason.  Police say Ickes was prounced dead at the scene... while Steber suffered moderate injuries.  The investigation into the crash is continuing.


Reed continuing to weigh vote on continued air strikes, supporting Iraqi and Syrian troops fighting ISIS...

Chautauqua County's Congressman says he appreciates President Obama's speech last week on the need to respond to the threat posed by ISIS -- or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.  However... Corning Republican Tom Reed says he's continuing to weigh input from residents in the 23rd Congressional District... and, military leaders leading up to a vote on supporting Iraqi and Syrian opposition forces.  Reed hosted two Town Hall meetings over the weekend... and, says while people are "war-weary..." they also recognize the threat ISIS has become -- and, may remain in the future.  Congress will vote on supporting such a move.  It's believed that the president will ask for $500,000 to support the opposition... and, air strikes in the region.  Reed says the "devil will be in the detals..." especially regarding a long-term solution to stamp out Islamic-backed terrorism in the Middle East.  He says he's glad to see members of the international community joining us in a coalition to fight back against ISIS.  The terrorist organization has beheaded two U.S. journalists... and, an English relief worker.


NYS Tax receipts up while income gap grows between rich and lower-income residents grows...

New York tax collections have continued rising despite a growing income gap between its richest residents and everyone else... while a national study shows overall growth in state tax receipts slowing as the income gap widens across the U.S.  State officials say New York's progressive income tax rate, which rises to nearly 9-percent for earnings above $1.03-million, buoys its largest revenue stream for public services and programs.  However, a new Standard & Poor's study suggests gains flowing to the top one-percent come at a broader cost to society, stunting overall economic growth and slowing average yearly gains in states' tax revenues.  It shows New York's annual average state tax revenue growth fell from 9.26-percent from 1950 to 1979 to 5.28-percent in the last decade.

 

WJTN News Headlines

New York is the latest state to confirm cases of a severe respiratory illness among children.  The state health department says there are more than a dozen children infected so far with the Enterovirus EV-D68.  Federal health officials have said it's an uncommon strain in a common family of viruses that cause infections from late summer into the fall.  Chautauqua County Director of Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler told us early last weekend that if your child suffers from respiratory problems... like asthma... and, gets early cold symptoms... get them to their doctor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this year's outbreak is unusually severe and includes serious breathing problems.  The virus usually causes mild cold-like symptoms that last about a week.  Most children recover without lasting problems.  There is no vaccination.  Schuyler urges everyone to practice prevention during this time.  She says that involves hand-washing, disinfecting surfaces and any usual steps to prevent the spread of flu.  The CDC says has confirmed cases in six other states as of Friday.

 

One person has been arrested following a large fight that occured shortly before closing at a bar on Jamestown's eastside early Sunday morning.  City police were called to the Bullfrog Hotel at 1414 East Second Street shortly before 2 AM... and, found several people had been hurt.  While Alstar Ambulance responded to the scene to treat those hurt... no one had to be transported to the hospital.  Officers say their investigation led to the arrest of 45 year-old Shawn Savaree... who had been involved in the fight... and, allegedly assaulted a woman at the bar.  Savaree is also accused of resisting arrest... and, had to be subdued and forced into a patrol car so he could be taken to the city jail.  He was jailed on charges of third-degree assault... resisting arrest... and, obstruction of governmental administration.

 

Despite some noise being made by his opponent in last week's Democratic State Primary... incumbant Governor Andrew Cuomo is in good shape to win a second-term in office.  That from Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi... a fellow Democrat who has long been a supporter of Cuomo's.  Teresi says he doesn't agree with everything Cuomo has done... but, adds there are some things he's done as mayor Cuomo may not agree with.  Still... while challenger Zephyr Teachout received 34-percent of the vote... Teresi believes Cuomo is the best man to lead the state.
Cuomo took most of the heat from the liberal end of the Democrat Party for not pushing for a "Millionaire's" tax... and, for eliminiating the Corporate Income Tax in the current year's budget.  While Cuomo was criticized by liberals for allowing more tax breaks to businesses, and the wealthy... it's been received positively upstate.  Teresi says there have been a number of positives to Cuomo's first term.  On the other hand... Cuomo says Teachout ran a good campaign... and, brought up a "lot of good issues" he feels were worthy of bring brought up.  Teresi made his comments on this past weekend's "Community Spotlight" program.

 

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's two main election rivals are again calling for debates, though they don't agree on who should participate.  Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins says that he should be included in debates along with Cuomo and the Republican candidate... Westchester County executive Rob Astorino.  Astorino has proposed as many as eight two-man debates against Cuomo, a Democrat.  He has said third party candidates shouldn't be permitted.  Cuomo has said he believes he believes he will participate in debates before the November election, but he'll let the campaigns work out the details.  Cuomo refused to debate his primary opponent, law professor Zephyr Teachout. He won Tuesday's primary 62 percent to 34 percent.  Teachout says Friday that Hawkins should be allowed to debate.

 

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer is proposing legislation to ban 10 flame retardants from upholstered furniture and children's products... saying the chemicals have been linked to developmental delays in children and rare cancers in firefighters when treated furniture burns.  The New York Democrat says studies have also shown that the 10 most toxic retardants in the padding of furniture and children's products like crib mattresses and changing table pads are not effective in reducing fire risks.  According to Schumer's office... a study by the Environmental Working Group and Duke University published in August found children at particular risk from closer contact with the products and dust particles that contain the toxins.  The bill would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission to ban the 10 and review all other chemical flame retardants.

 

Officials at the Dunkirk School District are hoping to land a 500-thousand dollar yearly state Pathway in Technology Early College High School -- or P-Tech -- Grant that would allow students to earn their associates degree.  Under the proposed educational training program... the Dunkirk School District would serve as the lead educational agency with BOCES serving as the facilitator.  School Superintendent Gary Cerne (Sir-Nee) says students at the middle school level would be given the opportunity to enroll in the unique learning environment.
The 2-year debree program would be open to students at all area school districts.  The curriculum would include: welding, mechanical technology and precision machining.  The grant money would be used to help pay the tuition costs with Jamestown Community College serving as the educational partner.  School officials plan to file for the grant next week Friday... and, anticipate an answer this November.

 

News Update! for Fri. night, Sept. 12, 2014

(**Update!)EV-D68 virus now confirmed in NYS...

New York has became the latest state to confirm cases of a severe respiratory illness among children.  The state health department says there are more than a dozen children infected so far with enterovirus EV-D68.  Federal health officials have said it's an uncommon strain in a common family of viruses that cause infections from late summer into the fall.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this year's outbreak is unusually severe and includes serious breathing problems.  The virus usually causes mild cold-like symptoms that last about a week. Most children recover without lasting problems.  There is no vaccination.  Prevention involves hand-washing, disinfecting surfaces and any usual steps to prevent the spread of flu.  First identified in California in 1962... EV-D68has been rare in the U.S. The CDC says has confirmed cases in six other states as of Friday.


Schuyler says is was just a matter of time before Enterovirus makes it's way to New York; she urges parents to especially be on the look-out...

It's considered a rare virus... but, it's now spread to more a dozen states... and, is now in New York state.  It's technical name is Enterovirus D-68.  That from Chautauqua County Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler... who says it was likely just a matter of time before it gets here.  No cases have been confirmed in Chautauqua County at this point.  Schuyler says when the virus hits... the symptoms are often like that of the common cold.  However... she says it can soon trigger mild to serious respiratory illness -- including fever, runny nose and sneezing.  But... she says it can progress to difficulty in breathing -- especially children with asthma -- or other respiratory problems.  Schuyler says if your child has such problems -- including severe allegies -- and, they develope the breathing issues... get them to your doctor or a health care official right away.  She says... just like with a cold or the flu... there are ways to avoid getting the Enterovirus.  One is covering your cough... and, washing your hands.  People should also stay home if they're sick.  Enterovirus is spread through the air... and, is now in about a dozen states -- mainly in the mid-west.


City man arrested for criminal drug possession...

A Jamestown man sought by police has been found on the city's eastside... in possession of illegal drugs, and a hypodermic needle.  City officers were called to the area of Crescent and Buffalo Streets just after 11 this morning.  Police say they were looking for 32 year-old Matthew Caldwell... who was sought on a court warrant.  Officers say they located Caldwell, who they say gave them a false name... and, he was arrested.  Police say they found him in possession of a large number of Suboxone strips... a controlled substance... and, the hypodermic needle.  Caldwell is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... criminal possession of a hypodermic needle... and, False personation.  He's jailed pending arraignment.


Fall Festival of Bands set to go at Strider Field tomorrow night...

Nine marching bands are set to compete in the annual Fall Festival of Bands tomorrow night at Strider Field in Jamestown.  The event is organized by the JHS Band Boosters to benefit the Jamestown marching band.  The Red Raiders show this year is called "Goldrush."  Jacob Sandstrom, one of the JHS Drum Majors, says fans will be impressed.  Sandstrom says it's a high paced show that's similar to what they did last year.  Bands from Eisenhower, Falconer, Pioneer, Hornell, and Wellsville will be on the field for the early part of the Fall Festival, followed by bands from West Seneca, Jamestown, Albion, Pennsylvania, and Orchard Park.  Tickets for the show at $6 at the gate.  The program begins Saturday night at 6:30 p.m.  JHS Band Director Meghan Murray says the Festival of Bands will run 'rain or shine'.  They have plans to move the show indoors if it should rain. 

 

 

News Update for Fri., Sept. 12, 2014

Schuyler says just a matter of time before Enterovirus makes it's way to New York; she urges parents to especially be on the look-out...

It's considered a rare virus... but, it's now spread to a dozen states... and, it will likely make it's way into New York state at some point.  It's technical name is Enterovirus D-68.  That from Chautauqua County Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler... who says there have been no reported cases in New York yet... but, it's likely just a matter of time before it gets here.  Schuyler says when the virus hits... the symptoms are often like that of the common cold.  However... she says it can soon trigger mild to serious respiratory illness -- including fever, runny nose and sneezing.  But... she says it can progress to difficulty in breathing -- especially children with asthma -- or other respiratory problems.  Schuyler says if your child has such problems -- including severe allegies -- and, they develope the breathing issues... get them to your doctor or a health care official right away.  She says... just like with a cold or the flu... there are ways to avoid getting the Enterovirus.  One is covering your cough... and, washing your hands.  People should also stay home if they're sick.  Enterovirus is spread through the air... and, is now in about a dozen states -- mainly in the mid-west.  The nearest state to New York where the virus has been found is Ohio.


City man arrested for criminal drug possession...

A Jamestown man sought by police has been found on the city's eastside... in possession of illegal drugs, and a hypodermic needle.  City officers were called to the area of Crescent and Buffalo Streets just after 11 this morning.  Police say they were looking for 32 year-old Matthew Caldwell... who was sought on a court warrant.  Officers say they located Caldwell, who they say gave them a false name... and, he was arrested.  Police say they found him in possession of a large number of Suboxone strips... a controlled substance... and, the hypodermic needle.  Caldwell is charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... criminal possession of a hypodermic needle... and, False personation.  He's jailed pending arraignment.


Fall Festival of Bands set to go at Strider Field tomorrow night...

Nine marching bands are set to compete in the annual Fall Festival of Bands tomorrow night at Strider Field in Jamestown.  The event is organized by the JHS Band Boosters to benefit the Jamestown marching band.  The Red Raiders show this year is called "Goldrush."  Jacob Sandstrom, one of the JHS Drum Majors, says fans will be impressed.  Sandstrom says it's a high paced show that's similar to what they did last year.  Bands from Eisenhower, Falconer, Pioneer, Hornell, and Wellsville will be on the field for the early part of the Fall Festival, followed by bands from West Seneca, Jamestown, Albion, Pennsylvania, and Orchard Park.  Tickets for the show at $6 at the gate.  The program begins Saturday night at 6:30 p.m.  JHS Band Director Meghan Murray says the Festival of Bands will run 'rain or shine'.  They have plans to move the show indoors if it should rain. 

 

 

WJTN News Headlines

An expert in illegal drug use says -- from her observations -- outreach to drug addicts in the Jamestown-area is "desperately needed."  That from Dr. Karen McElrath... who was one of three panelists for last night's Community Education Program on the Heroin epidemic in the area.  McElrath -- who has done a lot of research in the U-S and Ireland -- is a Criminal Justice professor at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina.  She told a full-house at Jamestown Community College's Scharmann Theater that a couple of Outreach Liasons can help addicts... and, their doctors. McElrath says stopping the use of needles will reduce the spread of diseases -- like Hepatitus "C."  She adds primary care doctors don't have the background to fully deal with drug addiction.  Jamestown Police Chief Harry Snellings told the audience his department recognized more than two years ago that drugs and drug addiction was fueling about 90-percent of their crime.  With that... they have come down hard on drug traffickers... with several recent raids.  Last night's program was hosted by the Jamestown Strategic Planning and Partnerships Health Care Action Team.

 

Jamestown police have formed a new collaboration with Ellicott Town Police to deal with drug-related crime in the Greater Jamestown-area.  Mayor Sam Teresi says the collaboration with other agencies really isn't new... but, adds that city Police have been working a lot with the Ellicott Department on recent investigations... so, a more formal title was the logical next step. Ellicott Police officials say -- while there is a new task force in place -- it does NOT change their agreement in place with the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force.  In addition... Ellicott Police Detective Brad Knight says they've established their own Tip-line for people who want to leave information... but, want to do it confidentially.  Knight says the timing is right... because people seem less and less inclined to give information if they have to give their name.  Knight says their tip-line number is 241-9877... that's 241-9877.  The line is available 24-hours, 7-days a week.  The line has only been up a couple of days... and, police say they've received no tips as yet.

 

The first mother-and-son team to head up the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County's annual campaign called on volunteers to make a difference in the Greater Jamestown-area.  Melissa and Shane Uber are heading up this year's effort... and, Melissa says it's "great" to finally 'kick-off' the campaign after spending several months working behind the scenes to put together their team of volunteers.  She says her family has been involved with the United Way for many years. Melissa Uber says this year's General Campaign goal is 1.32-million dollars... which is about 5-thousand dollars more than last year.  Officials stress that all the money raised stays in the Jamestown-area for local human services agencies... and, the United Way itself.  Shane Uber says says it's a "great way to give back to the community."  This year's theme is the "Difference Your Dollar Can Make" to emphasize how all donations... big and small... can make a difference.  The campaign benefits 42 programs at 20 different human service agencies.  For more information... call the United Way at 483-1561.

 

Thursday afternoon's kick-off for the United Way Campaign was held on September 11th as part of the National Day of Service and Rememberance.  United Way volunteers were on hand at the Boys and Girls Club earlier assembling activity kits for the Parents as Teachers program at the Jamestown Community Learning Council.  Campaign Co-Chair Melissa Uber says more than 100 families will be helped by the effort. Also during the program... United Way volunteers heard from "Alexandra..." who took part in the literacy program to help improve her children's early reading skills... and, their readiness for school.  Alexandra was helped by specially-trained home visitors in the program.

 

Portions of two streets in downtown Jamestown that recently underwent surface milling So they could be re-surfaced... will be paved today and Saturday.  City Public Works Director Jeff Lehman says DPW crews will be paving West Third Street from Washington Street to North Main today... and, West Second Street from Washington to North Main on Saturday, the 13th.  Lehman urges motorists to arrange their travel to avoid those areas during the day-time hours.  He says all vehicles must be moved off the street... and, out of the parking lots -- if they are to be used that day -- by no later than 7 AM each day.  Lehman says the road will be closed within the project area each day.   Motorists must use alternate routes of travel.  Also... use extra caution while driving near these and other construction areas.

 

The state has posted its first fall foliage map for the leaf-peeping season.  Tourism officials posted the initial map yesterday on the I Love New York website with field observers saying fall colors are already beginning to appear in the Adirondacks, Catskills and Thousand Islands regions.

WJTN News Headlines

It appears that all four candidates running for Chautauqua County Family Court Judge will have party lines for the November 4th general elections.  However... that could change depending absentee ballots.  That from Republican County Elections Commissioner Brian Abram who says all the results from the primary elections are unofficial.
There is a question about whether the results in the Green Party race will stand.  Abram says Michael Sullivan of Fredonia leads James Spann of Westfield by one vote, 3-to-2.  He says there is a real possibility that the Green Party winner could change due to the small number of voters involved.  According to the unofficial results -- again... Jeffrey Piazza has won the Republican, Conservative and Independence Party lines.  Sally Jaroszynski defeated James Spann for the Democratic party line... and, Spann has won the Working Families Party line. 

 

Governor Cuomo's bumpy win in New York's Democratic primary is energizing his general election opponents.  Republican Rob Astorino told Talk 1300 Radio Wednesday that liberal Zephyr Teachout's 34 percent showing exposed big problems for the governor within his own party.  Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins says disaffected Democrats should support him in the November election.  Cuomo won 62 percent to win Tuesday's primary after spending much of the race publicly ignoring Teachout.

 

Several thousand mourners were at a downtown Rochester arena yesterday for funeral services for a city police officer killed in the line of duty last week.  Daryl Pierson's funeral began shortly before noon Wednesday at Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester Community War Memorial.   Authorities say the 32-year-old officer was fatally shot last Wednesday night by a man wanted for a parole violation who fled from a traffic stop.  Pierson's partner shot and wounded the suspect.

 

The Jamestown Public School year is off to "a great start."  That from Superintendent Tim Mains to the school board at Tuesday night's meeting.  Mains reported that he had been able to get to all the school buildings by last Friday... and, was pleased with what he saw.  He says he was back at another school this morning. Mains says this year's opening went smoother than his first opening when he became Superintendent in August of last year.  As for overall school enrollment... he says the numbers appear stable right now... though there has been some fluxuation in the elementary schools.  Mains says there are some "large Kindergarten" classes at one school... and, they're talking with the principal about shifting some personnel.  The Jamestown District held a half-day of classes for everyone last Wednesday to provide another half-day of staff development before the first full day of school last Thursday.  Mains says the district did a lot of staff development during the Summer to prepare teachers for the second full-year of Common Core instruction.

 

The Jamestown School District has received a 623-thouands dollar grant to help coach and mentor teachers and principals to help students meet the new, "rigorous" learning standards.  The district's director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Jessie Joy, applied for the 'Strengthening Teacher, and Leader Effectiveness-3 Program' grant.  During Tuesday night's school board meeting... Joy outlined the grant... and, program the district has put in place to provide 'on-the-job' training for those needing help. With that... Joy says two teachers have been taken out of teaching entirely... and, will focus strictly on working with teachers and educational leaders on teaching Common Core.  She says their salaries will be paid for the year through the grant.  Joy adds there are others who will continue teaching... but, will also work with staff... and, do one-on-one mentoring.  They will receive stipends for their added responsiblities.  Joy says some 22 teachers are involved with this aspect of the program.  She adds they are still working on a program for the district's school principals.

 

Gas prices in the Jamestown-area remain at about 3-dollars-72 cents a gallon this week.  That from the Triple A's Regional Fuel Gauge Report... which says the price was a fraction of a penny over last week's price for regular, unleaded, based on reports from 19 area service stations.  On the National scene... with just one week remaining before many parts of the country begin the switch to cheaper winter-blend fuel... the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline is 3-dollars-43 cents per gallon.  Triple-A says the national average price for retail gasoline historically declines in the weeks after Labor Day.

 

The Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities has announced the Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day scheduled for this Saturday, September 13th, in Falconer, has been cancelled.  DPF Director George Spanos says the hazardous waste drop off was to run from 9 AM to 2 PM at the department's building at 454 North Work Street.  Spanos says "due to a change in contractors, we are in the process of rescheduling the second Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day for 2014."  He says the events have been "a great opportunity for residents to safely dispose of hazardous items around their homes for free."  He adds that once they have the event rescheduled they will inform residents.  For more information about the county Department of Public Facilities Division of Solid Waste, call TJ at 985-4785... extension 203.

 

WJTN News Headlines

It was a night of big primary wins Tuesday for south county candidates in the race for the second, Chautauqua County Family Court Judge seat.  There were both Republican and Democrat primaries... and, others for third-party lines.  The GOP winner is Jamestown-area Attorney Jeffrey Piazza.  Piazza... who advertised, and used robo calls... defeated Fredonia's Michael Sullivan 61 to 39-percent.  With all 52 polling places reporting... Piazza had 18-hundred-91 votes to Sullivan's 12-hundred-30 votes. 
 
On the Democrat side... another Jamestown-area attorney... and, town Justice, Sally Jaroszynski, defeated James Spann, 13-hundred-95 to 860.  Spann, a town and village attorney in Westfield, was the endorsed candidate.Piazza will also have two other lines in the November 4th election.  He claimed the Conservative line over Sullivan, 122 to 95... and, the Independence Party line with 143 votes... to Sullivan's 66... and, Spann's 48.

 

In the race for governor... Andrew Cuomo won handly in Chautauqua County... but, statewide... liberal challenger Zepher Teachout made a strong showing with 36-percent of the vote.  Cuomo received 60-percent of the vote.  Locally... he had 1,536 votes to Teachout's 624.  Endorsed Lieutenant Govenor candidate Kathy Hochul of Buffalo had 59-percent of the vote to challenge Timothy Wu's 41-percent.  In Chautauqua County... Hochul had 1,712 votes to Wu's 603. 

In the District 12 race for the Independence Party endorsement for Chautauqua County Legislature, Republican Elizabeth Rankin defeated Beth Kresge, 19-to-18.

 

The new, Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force gave two alleged drug dealers a "housewarming" party they won't forget... raiding their southside home one day after they moved in.  City Police Chief Harry Snellings says JPD officers and Ellicott Town Police -- along with the state Police C-NET Team -- raided ths house at 254 Barrett Avenue shortly after Noon Tuesday.  Snellings says they arrested 31 year-old Michael Newton... and, 40 year-old Nicole Campbell... and, found 40 bags of heroin... about 2-and-a-half ounces of "crack" cocaine... a 38-calibur gun... and, 13-thousand dollars cash during the raid. Snellings says Newton is charged with two counts of Felony thid-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He adds Campbell faces one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance... and one of possession of a firearm.  She's also charged with tampering with physical evidence.  Snellings says both will likley be arraigned on the charges sometime later today.

 

There is a way for the community to take part in addressing the heroin epidemic in the Greater Jamestown-area... which has also plagued the rest of the state and nation.  Residents are being urged to attend Thursday night's Community Education Program entitled "Striking Back at the White Plague."  The program is being hosted by the Jamestown Strategic Planning and Partnerships Commission's Health Care Action Team at 7 PM in the Scharmann Theater.  Council President Greg Rabb promoted the program as a way for people to learn more... and, find out how they can help. Mayor Sam Teresi encouraged people to attend... and, support the efforts of police, and city officials to get the drug traffickers off the streets.  Police Chief Harry Snellings says the public has been very active in helping with their investigations... adding their 483-TIPS Tip-line has an average of 10 to 15 messages on it every day... and, some calls come from outside the Jamestown-area.  Those are sometimes regarding Jamestown cases... others are elsewhere.   Again... the tip-line number is 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

An ex-convict from Olean has been sentenced to up to four years in state prison for trafficking Heroin in the Cattaraugus County city.  The Buffalo News reports 26 year-old James Hovey (Huh-Vee) received the term from County Court Judge Ronald Ploetz following Hovey's conviction on criminal sale, and attempted sales of Heroin.  Hovey reportedly sold Heroin in Olean twice last February... and, one other time on May 9th.  He had been jailed since that incident following a lengthy investigation.  Hovey was spared three consecutive prison terms on the charges since he was a repeat Felon.

 

The two homeless men suspected of shooting and killing a New York concert violinist during a robbery in the town of Westfield last August have been formally arraigned on federal charges.  The U-S Attorney's office in Buffalo says 43 year-old Jonathan Conklin... and, 30 year-old Charles Sanford were arraigned on a federal indictment charging them with carjacking... using a gun during a violent crime... and, weapons possession.  They're accused of killing 61 year-old Mary Whitaker in her summer home on Titus Road back on August 20th.  They were later arrested in nearby Erie, Pennsylvania.  They pleaded not guilty yesterday... and, their next court appearance will be next January 28th.  In addition... Conklin and Sanford are also expected to be charged with murder here in Chautauqua County.

 

U-S News and World Report is out with its latest rankings of colleges across the nation and the State University of New York college at Fredonia once again did well.  Among regional rankings... Fredonia is 41st.  That's up 19 spots from last year's ranking at 60th.  SUNY at Fredonia Spokesman Mike Barone says officials there are pleased. The magazine ranked over 13-hundred colleges and universities across the nation.  Fredonia had the largest year-to-year improvement among Western New York schools. 

 

Administration officials say President Obama will ask Congress to quickly authorize the arming and training of moderate Syrian opposition forces.  However... he but will press forward without formal sign-off from lawmakers on a broader military and political effort to fight Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq.  Obama is scheduled to outline his plans in a rare prime-time address to the nation at 9 tonight.  You can hear that address tonight on WJTN Radio.  The announcement came Tuesday after president huddled with congressional leaders at the White House.

 

U-S Senator Kirsten Gillibrand says it's critically important that the United States strongly confront the insurgent Islamic State organization.  The New York Democrat tells MSNBC she knows that won't be easy.  Gillibrand is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee... and, concedes many Americans are tired of long overseas conflicts.  But... she says people also are concerned about the intentions of the Islamist militant movement in Iraq and Syria.

 

Two people familiar with discussions have told The A--P that Terry and Kim Pegula's bid to buy the Buffalo Bills has been tentatively approved by members of late owner Ralph Wilson's estate.  The next step in the sale process is for the estate to get initial approval from the NFL.  That could come by the end of the week and as early as later in the day.  The two people spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the sale process is private.  The development comes a day after the Buffalo Sabres owners were among at least three prospective ownership groups to submit binding bids to purchase the team.

 

There were a few tense moments... but, no safety problems when shots were reported late yesterday morning in the area of the Youngsville schools in Warren County.  State Police in Warren were called to the scene... and, believe the shots may have some from the area of a field near Route 6 -- some distance from the school.  Troopers say no one was hurt... and, there was never a threat to the school.  Youngsville school officials consulted with police... but, never ordered the school to be locked-down.

News Update for Tues., Sept 9, 2014

Piazza, Jaroszynski big winners locally on Primary Night 2014...

It was a night of big primary wins Tuesday for south county candidates in the race for the second, Chautauqua County Family Court Judge seat.  There were both Republican and Democrat primaries... and, others for third-party lines.  The GOP winner is Jamestown-area Attorney Jeffrey Piazza.  Piazza... who advertised, and used robo calls... defeated Fredonia's Michael Sullivan 61 to 39-percent.  With all 52 polling places reporting... Piazza had 1,891 votes to Sullivan's 1,230.  On the Democrat side... another Jamestown-area attorney... and, town Justice, Sally Jaroszynski, defeated James Spann, 13-hundred-95 to 860.  Spann, a town and village attorney in Westfield, was the endorsed candidate.  Piazza will also have two other lines in the November 4th election.  He claimed the Conservative line over Sullivan, 122 to 95... and, the Independence Party line with 143 votes... to Sullivan's 66... and, Spann's 48.  Spann won the Working Families line... while Sullivan got the Green Party endorsement.
_____ 

In the race for governor... Andrew Cuomo won handly in Chautauqua County... but, statewide... liberal challenger Zepher Teachout made a strong showing with 36-percent of the vote.  Cuomo received 60-percent of the vote.  Locally... he had 1,536 votes to Teachout's 624.  Endorsed Lieutenant Govenor candidate Kathy Hochul of Buffalo had 59-percent of the vote to challenge Timothy Wu's 41-percent.  In Chautauqua County... Hochul had 1,712 votes to Wu's 603. 
_____

In the District 12 race for the Independence Party endorsement for Chautauqua County Legislature, Republican Elizabeth Rankin defeated Beth Kresge, 19-to-18.

News Update! for Tues., Sept. 9, 2014

Latest drug raid in Jamestown on Barrett Ave. nets two arrests, heroin and "crack," gun and cash...

Two people have been arrested for allegedly trafficking Heroin and "crack" cocaine in Jamestown... literally one day after they moved into the house they were in.  City Police Chief Harry Snellings says they had been tracking one of the suspects... Michael Newton... who was arrested during this afternoon's raid at 254 Barrett Ave.  Snellings says they and Ellicott police were involved in the raid just after 12 p.m. today.  He says members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force and State Police C-NET Team were involved as part of the on-going investigation into trafficking both narcotic drugs.  Snellings also says they appreciate their new collaboration with Ellicott police.  In addition to Newton... he says they also arrested another resident, Nichole Campbell, who just moved into the Jamestown-area.  Snellings they seized 40 bags of heroin, 2.4-ounces of "crack" cocaine a 38-calibur hand-gun with ammunition, and $13,000 cash.  Snellings says the arrests are part of the Jamestown Police Department's on-going investigation into illegal narcotics sales in the city that have been on-going for the past two-years.  He says Newton and Campbell will likely be arraigned on Felony drug, and weapons charges tomorrow.  If you have any information on the illegal trafficking of drugs in Jamestown... call city police at 483-7537... or their confidential tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

WJTN News Headlines

The Power is out on the North side of Jamestown after a car struck a utility pole on North Main Street near Tim Hortons this morning. Jamestown Police report that the one car accident happened just after 2:30. There were Apparently no injuries as the driver refused treatment. The power outage affects an area covering Buffalo Street, North Main Street and up to Horton Road.  Board of Public Utilities Crews are working to restore power and hope to have it back sometime this morning.

 

The public is understandably "nervous..." but, pleased that Jamestown police are doing to get drug traffickers off the streets.  That from city council members during last night's work session as City Police continue their crack-down on dealers... with several raids in recent weeks.  Lawmakers commended Chief Harry Snellings... and, his department for their efforts.  Snellings also addressed the recent shooting in the Appleyard Terrace housing complex... which is mainly for low-income residents.  At this point... he says it's not known if it was drug-related.
Snellings did say the number of shooting investigations is up from one last year to three this year... including the one at 188 Falconer Street on July 1st -- which was drug-related.  He says their investigations are on-going... and, that "aggressive" approach started about 2-and-a-half years ago when city officials recognized more drug-activity.  Council President Greg Rabb says city police have done a "pretty good job" in getting a handle on the supply side of the equation.  However... it's getting the "demand" side dealt with that's a big issue now.  That will be part of a public forum at Jamestown Community College's Scharmann Theater this Thursday night at 7 PM. 

 

Jamestown police hope to have two city men -- one who allegedly shot and wounded another man last Tuesday night -- returned to the area by the end of the week.  However... JPD Captain Bob Samuelson says that depends on whether either Trenton Grant, or Isaiah Pearson fights extradiction from Tennessee.  Meantime... the investigation continues into who may have allegedly helped the two 20 year-old men flee the area.  Samuelson says while those people thought they might be "helping" their friends... they too could be arrested... and, may face federal charges, as well. Samuelson says they believe several people may have helped Grant and Pearson get out of the state... then get bus tickets to Jackson, Tennessee.  The allegedly left the state last Thursday... two days after Grant allegedly shot a man in the Appleyard Terrace housing units.  Samuelson says if anyone with information on who may have helped the two fugitives is urged to call City Police at 483-7537... or call their anonymous tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

Today's New York state primary is getting a lot of attention... but, it's not expected to bring out many additional Democrats or Republicans.  The main point Chautauqua County Elections Commissioners Brian Abram and Norm Green want local residents to know is that ALL polls in Chautauqua County open at 12 Noon today... and, voting continues until 9 PM.  Abram... the county's GOP Commissioner... says the polls do NOT open here at 6 AM as they do in the Buffalo-area.  As for turn-out... Abram says they would like 25 to 30-percent... but, don't expect it.
The big vote in Chautauqua County is for the Democratic and Republican candidates for the county's second Family Court Judge.  The state recently approved a second Family Court seat.  Abram says there are two Republicans... Mike Sullivan and Jeff Piazza... facing off.  In addition.. there are two Democrats... James Spann and Sally Jaroszynski.  The Board of Elections says reports Sullivan, Piazza and Spann are also seeking the Conservative and Independence Party endorsements... while Sullivan and Spann are seeking the Working Families' Party backing.  One other local race is for the County Legislature District 12 Independence Party endorsement between Democrat Beth Kresge... and, Republican Elizabeth Rankin.

 

A Jamestown man faces several charges after allegedly fleeing the scene of a serious car crash in the town of North Harmony after his speeding car went out of control early Sunday night.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Spooner Road just after 5 PM for a single-car accident... and, found the vehicle had gone down an embankment... and, struck several trees.  Further investigation led to the arrest of 25 year-old Paul Miller... who was caught a short distance from the scene.  At the time of the accident... deputies say Miller had a 15 year-old passenger in his vehicle.  He's been charged with Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident, Endangering the Welfare of a Child... and, Resisting Arrest.  Miller is also accused of violating his parole.  Miller was arraigned in North Harmony Town Court... and, sent to the County Jail without bail.

 

A-A-R-P says many Baby Boomers plan to leave New York as they retire and take a slice of the state's economy with them.  The group says its survey shows 60 percent of working New Yorkers over 50 say they're likely to go elsewhere in retirement, taking an estimated 105-billion dollars, or more of annual spending.  AARP says the statewide survey shows 40 percent worry about paying rent or mortgages... 56 percent are extremely or very worried about paying property taxes... 51 percent worry about utility bills and most are looking for improvements in health care, housing, transportation and jobs for older residents.  Spokesman Erik Kriss says the survey of 407 registered voters has a margin of error of 5 percent.  Boomers were born between 1946 and 1964.

WJTN News Headlines

The man wanted by Jamestown police for allegedly shooting another man on the city's eastside last Tuesday night ... and, his accomplice in a burglary in Lakewood... have been caught in Tennessee.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says both 20 year-old Trenton Grant and 20 year-old Isaiah Pearson... were located in Jackson, Tennessee... and, tailed by a Violent Fugitive Task Force team... which arrested them last night.  The team is made up of ATF members... and, officials from the U-S Marshall's Office.  Samuelson says both men were taken into custody without incident.  Grant is accused of firing four shots at another man at the Appleyard Terrace housing complex on East Second Street about 7:30 PM last Tuesday.  The victim was hit by two shots, and was in stable condition at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, PA.  He says they are jailed... pending extradiction... in the Madison County Jail.   Samuelson says they know both men were assisted in getting out of state, and were given money to get to Jackson... where Grant has family.  He says anyone with information on who provided the help to Grant and Pearson is urged to call city Police at 483-7537... or call their anonymous tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

A call to restrain a person who was allegedly out-of-control in Jamestown led to family members and a house guest attacking the responding officer.  City police were called to the scene on Prather Avenue just before 5 PM Saturday.  Other city police officers... and, those from neighboring agencies responded to the officer's call for assistance.  Police arrested 62 year-old James Witcher of the Prather Avenue address... and, he was charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Two people in the house were taken to WCA Hospital... as well as the officer.  All were treated for minor injuries.  City police say the investigation is continuing... and, more arrests are expected.

 

The two homeless men accused of murdering a New York City violinist who played with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra will be formally arraigned on federal charges tomorrow.  That from U-S Attorney William Hochul, Junior... who says they were indicted by a Grand Jury in Buffalo last Friday.  Hochul says both 43 year-old Jonathan Conklin... and, 30 year-old Charles Sanford are formally charged with three counts... including carjacking... use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence... and, Felon possession of a firearm.  He says the charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.  Conklin and Lynch are accused of robbing 61 year-old Mary Whitaker inside her town of Westfield home on August 20th... and, then shooting and killing her.

 

Reconstruction work on a rough stretch of Route 60 from just south of Route 20 to village of Cassadaga gets underway today.  That's the word from State Department of Transportation officials in Buffalo.  DOT Spokeswoman Susan Surdej (Sir-Day) tells us that crews will begin to mill the roadway first. Surdej says paving will begin on this coming Friday, September 12th and take another six working days to complete.  The entire project should be completed by mid-to-late September.  We have been covering problems dealing with the five mile section of highway since last December.

 

Fall Clean-Up in the city of Jamestown gets underway today... with clean-up items to be left by residents at curbside the day before your regular garbage pick-up.  That from Board of Public Utilities' Spokeswoman Becky Robbins... who says there are several items that can be left out.  However... she says these items cannot weigh over 40-pounds... and, should be something one person can easily handle. For large items... such as mattresses... and refrigerators... Robbins says you must make an appointment to have those picked up by calling their garbage hotline.  She adds that's also the case for large or heavy, electronic items... such as televisions, and computer monitors.  Robbins says they also need an appointment... and, a separate fee is charged.  She adds yard waste will NOT be accepted during Fall Clean-up Week.  Those items must be taken to the city's Yard Waste Disposal Site.  Clean-up Week runs through this Friday, September 12th.  For more information... call the Garbage Hot-line at 661-1651.

 

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and his running mate Kathy Hochul have released a list of dozens of endorsements from prominent Democrats ahead of Tuesday's primary.  The list features more than 70 endorsements, including ones from the mayors of Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, several members of Congress, and municipal leaders from each region of the state.  The campaign also announced that Hillary Clinton is backing Cuomo and Hochul with a recorded telephone message to Democratic voters.  Cuomo faces Fordham University law professor Zephyr Teachout in Tuesday's matchup.  Hochul, a former Buffalo congresswoman, faces Columbia University law professor Tim Wu in the primary for lieutenant governor.  The endorsements show how seriously Cuomo's campaign is taking the primary challenge... despite polls that suggest Teachout is not well known around the state.

 

Officials, business leaders and friends are calling the presumed death of a prominent Rochester couple a huge loss for the city.  The couple's private plane crashed near Jamaica last Friday.  Real estate developer Laurence Glazer has been credited with helping revitalize Rochester.  His wife, Jane, founded a household-products catalog company.  As a search for the plane continued yesterday, friend and former business partner Harold Samoff said Laurence Glazer made an ``incalculable'' contribution to renewing interest in downtown Rochester.

News Update for Sun., Sept. 6, 2014

**(Alert)Man sought in Jamestown shooting, accomplice in burglary, arrested in Tennessee...

 

The man wanted by Jamestown police for allegedly shooting another man on the city's eastside last Tuesday night ... and, his accomplice in a burglary in Lakewood... have been caught in Tennessee.  City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says both 20 year-old Trenton Grant, and 20 year-old Isaiah Pearson... were located in Jackson, Tennessee... and, tailed by a Violent Fugitive Task Force team... which arrested them last night.  The team is made up of ATF members... and, officials from the U-S Marshall's Office.  Samuelson says both men were taken into custody without incident.  Grant is accused of shooting another man twice at the Appleyard Terrace housing complex on East Second Street about 7:30 p.m. last Tuesday.  The victim was last known in stable condition at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, PA.  He says they are jailed... pending extradiction... in the Madison County Jail.   Samuelson says they know both men were assisted in getting out of state, and were given money to get to Jackson... where Grant has family.  He says anyone with information on who provided the help to Grant and Pearson is urged to call city Police at 483-7537... or call their anonymous tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

  

News Update for Fri., Sept. 5, 2014

Conklin and Sanford indicted by federal Grand Jury in Whitaker murder...

The two homeless men accused of murdering a violinist from New York City who played with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra... have now been indicted by a federal Grand Jury.  U-S Attorney William Hochul, Junior announced late Friday that the panel indicted 43 year-old Jonathan Conklin... and, 30 year-old Charles Sanford on three charges.  Hochul says they include carjacking... use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence... and, Felon possession of a firearm.  He says the charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison... and, a maximum sentence of life.  Hochul says the federal case is being handled by Assistant U-S Attorney Timothy Lynch.  Conklin and Lynch are accused of robbing 61 year-old Mary Whitaker inside her town of Westfield home on Aug. 20, and, they allegedly shot and killed her soon after Whitaker answered the door at her home.  Both men remain jailed... and, will be arraigned next Tuesday, Sept. 9.


Community Education Program set for next Thurs. on Heroin, Opiate Drug Addiction problem in Jamestown-area...

A timely community education program on the struggles of drug addiction... from law enforcement to it's impact on families... will be held next Thursday night in Jamestown.  The program, entitled "Striking Back at the White Plague..." will feature three speakers on the issue of Heroin, and other opiate drugs.  Dr. Lillian Ney... who heads up the Health Care Action Team for the city's Strategic Planning and Partnerships Commission... says the program is timely because of the seven drug sweeps in the city this past week.  Ney says the free program will be held at the Robert Lee Scharmann Theatre at Jamestown Community College next Thursday night at 7 p.m.  She says they'll have three speakers on hand who will talk about the underlying causes, and scope of the problem.  Ney says the speakers will include Dr. David Withers of the American College of Emergency Physicians.  He formerly chaired the Emergency Department at WCA Hospital.  Withers will talk mainly about addiction, and treatment issues.  Dr. Karen McElrath... a Jamestown native who is a professor in Criminal Justice at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina... will speak to those areas as well.  The third speaker will be Jamestown Police Chief Harry Snellings... who has been at the forefront of the war against drug trafficking in the city.  Several community organizations... including the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County... are sponsoring next Thursday's program.


Deed Scam returns to Chautauqua County...

An old scam has apparently resurfaced in Chautauqua County regarding people being billed for copies of the deed to their property.  That from County Clerk Larry Barmore... who says he's received calls about the invoices several residents have received.  Barmore says the most recent letters are coming from a company called Record Transfer Services out of Westlake Village, California.  He says the fee to obtain a copy of their deed from this company is $83.  But... Barmore adds that other companies have also sent similar letters charging various fees from $59 and up.  He says "in most cases, property owners already have their deed.  It was returned to them after they purchased the property."  If you do need a copy... Barmore says you can get a certified copy from their office for about $2.  He adds that, under no circumstances, "should anyone pay these companies anywhere from $50 to $90 for a copy."  For complete more information on getting a copy... call the County Clerk's Office at 753-4331.
 
 
 

WJTN News Headlines

Five people are under arrest... and, a sixth is being caught after four more drug raids in Jamestown yesterday morning on East Second Street.  That from Jamestown Police Captain Bob Samuelson... who says officers, the JPD SWAT Team... and, members of the State Police C-NET team executed a search warrant about 10 AM at one apartment at 840 East Second... and, three others at apartments at 1091 East Second.  Samuelson says they found more than 36 bundles of Heroin and cash at 1091 East Second.  Fortunately... he says no weapons were found.
Samuelson says four people were arrested at the 1091 East Second Street location for criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two with burglary.  They include 51 year-old Jose Diaz-Solis... 37 year-old Cesar Santiago... 31 year-old Hiram Donato... and, 30 year-old LizMarie Rodriguez.  At 840 East Second... Samuelson says they arrested 20 year-old Valerie Comacho... was allegedly in the house with two young children, and a quantity of marijuana.  He says the five people were arrested in all... with most of them at the 1091 East Second Street location.  Samuelson says she faces child endangement charges.  Samuelson cited tips to the JPD Tip-line as being critical to the investigation.  That tip-line number is 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

Two sisters from southern Chautauqua County convicted of stealing money from the post offices they worked at have each been given two-years probation in federal court.  U-S Attorney William Hochul, Junior announced Thursday that 35 year-old Amanda Elliott of Ellington... and, 30 year-old Tamara Elliott of Falconer were sentenced by Chief U-S District Court Judge William Skretny.  Hochul says Amanda Elliott was Postmaster in Lily Dale from December of 2012 to September of 2013.  She was sentenced to two years probation... and, ordered to pay back about 55-hundred-80 dollars she stole in restitution.  Meantime... her sister, Tamara, received the same amount of probation... but, also received three months home confinement... and, was ordered to pay 11-thousand-326-dollars in restitution.  That's the amount she allegedly stole while she was postmaster in Ellington.  The theft of postage stamp proceeds occured during the same time period as her sister.

 

Officials say a police officer has died in a shooting in Rochester and a suspect has been apprehended.  Rochester Police Chief Michael Ciminelli says 32 year-old Daryl Pierson was shot just before 9:30 Wednesday night when gunfire was exchanged during a pursuit.  Ciminelli says Pierson is survived by his wife and two young children.  He was an eight-year veteran of the force and the first member of the city's police force to be killed in the line of duty since 1959.  Ciminelli said the suspect was in surgery at a local hospital.  A bystander also suffered non-life threatening injuries.  Mayor Lovely A. Warren said early Thursday that words cannot express the sense of sorrow and loss caused by the officer's death.  She said the city's police officers put their lives on the line each day.

 

The police shooting in Rochester hits close to home for many local police officials... including Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace.  While such incidents are rare in Chautauqua County... Gerace says the potential is always there. The last police shooting in Chautauqua County occurred nearly 10  years ago when an officer was wounded in the village of Fredonia.  That officer... who later retired... made a full recovery.  Gerace says training helps... but, he adds that officers have to always protect themselves. While details have not been worked out... Gerace expects a big turnout for the officers funeral.  On their Facebook page... Dunkirk Police expressed their sympathy and condolences for the family of the fallen Rochester Police officer. 

 

An accidental needle stick involving a Solid Waste Division employee a couple of weeks ago has prompted the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities to remind residents to dispose of "sharps" safely.  BPU Communications Coordinator Becky Robbins says the employee was not seriously hurt... nor did they have any serious health impacts after getting stuck by the needle while picking up garbage.  Robbins says Sharps can be disposed of in puncture resistant... leak-proof materials. Robbins adds that some pharmacies offer red sharps containers for sale... and, they also accept sharps containers.  She adds that containers should allow sharps to be easily placed inside... but, difficult to remove.  The container should be capped... and, labeled as "hazardous materials."  Robbins says that will help their workers since they're picking up hundreds of bags a day... and, many may contain sharps.  She says sharps include needles... syringes with needles attached... lancets... razor blades... and, other items that could cause punctures... cuts... or abrasions.

 

Gas prices in the Jamestown-area continue to drift downward this week by about three cents a gallon to 3-dollars-72 cents.  The Triple-A's Fuel Gauge Report says this week they surveyed 19 area gas stations, and mini-mart stations.  The Fuel Gauge says the price for regular, unleaded was just under 3-dollars-72 cents... which is down from 3--75.2 last week.   Last year at this time... it was 3-dollars-84.7 cents per gallon.  Nationally... Triple-A says the average price is the lowest on record for this date since 2010... when the national average was 2-dollars-68 cents.  The current price is 21 cents less than the same date in 2011... and, 40 cents less than 2012. 

 

 


 

News Update! for Thurs., Sept. 4, 2014

(**Update)Four search warrants served on East Second Street, nearly 400 "doses" of Heroin found...

Five people are under arrest... and, a sixth is being caught after four more drug raids in Jamestown Thursday morning on East Second Street.  That from Jamestown Police Captain Bob Samuelson... who says officers, the JPD SWAT Team... and, members of the State Police C-NET team executed a search warrant about 10 a.m. at one apartment at 840 East Second... and, three others at apartments at 1091 East Second.  Samuelson says they found more than 36 bundles of Heroin and cash at 1091 East Second.  He says that location was one of the busiest locations we've seen, as far the business they were doing... regarding heroin."  Samuelson says four people were arrested at the 1091 East Second Street location for criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two with burglary.  They include 51 year-old Jose Diaz-Solis... 37 year-old Cesar Santiago... 31 year-old Hiram Donato... and, 30 year-old LizMarie Rodriguez.  At 840 East Second... Samuelson says they arrested 20 year-old Valerie Comacho... was allegedly in the house with two young children, and a quantity of marijuana.  He says the five people were arrested in all... with most of them at the 1091 East Second Street location.  Samuelson says she faces child endangement charges.  Samuelson cited tips to the JPD Tip-line as being critical to the investigation.  That tip-line number is 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

News Update for Thurs., Sept. 4, 2014

Four more police raids on suspected residences in Jamestown used for trafficking Heroin...

As many as four more drug raids have taken place in Jamestown.  City Police officials confirm JPD officers and members of the State Police C-NET team executed a search warrant this morning at one apartment at 840 East Second Street... and, three others at apartments at 1091 East Second.  Authorities say they were looking for Heroin and heroin traffickers.  The raids come one day after three raids on Franklin Street.  There's no word yet on arrests... or possible drugs being found at this time.  We'll have more when it becomes available.


Gas prices down again this week in Chautauqua County...

Gas prices in the Jamestown-area continue to drift downward this week by about three cents a gallon to $3.72.  The AAA's Fuel Gauge Report says this week they surveyed 19 area gas stations, and mini-mart stations.  The Fuel Gauge says the price for regular, unleaded was $3.71.9... which is down from $3.75.2 last week.   Last year at this time... it was $3.84.7 per gallon.  Nationally... AAA says the average price is the lowest on record for this date since 2010... when the national average was $2.68.  The current price is 21 cents less than the same date in 2011... and, 40 cents less than 2012. 

 

WJTN News Headlines

Four people have been arrested as part of three separate raids that took place early Wednesday morning in the city of Jamestown at suspected drug houses.  City Police Drug Investigators... and, members of the State Police C-NET Team... executed search warrants at 52... 58... and, 61 Franklin Street about 6 AM... and, took the four into custody.  JPD Captain Bob Samuelson says they seized about 260 processed doses of Heroin... and, a loaded shotgun. Samuelson says the heroin was found a 52 and 58 Franklin Streets.... along with a large amount of cash.  One of the suspects... 62 year-old Raul Rodriguez-Colon... and, the sawed-off shot-gun were found at 61 Franklin.  He says it's "a victory" when they can get a gun off the street.  Three of the people... 37 year-old Jose Sanquiche (San-keysh)... 30 year-old Juan Vargas-Lopez... and, 26 year-old Stephanie Castro... were charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Rodriguez-Colon was charged with criminal possession of a firearm.  All four were arraigned late yesterday in City Court... and, sent to the county jail.  Anyone with information on illegal drug activity in the city can call JPD at 483-7537... or their Tip-Line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

A man who was shot twice by another man behind the Appleyard Terrace in Jamestown early Tuesday night is now in stable condition at an Erie hospital.  That from City Police Captain Bob Samuelson... who says officers were called to the scene at 608 East Second Street just before 7:30 PM.  Samuelson says they found the unidentified victim... and, learned the suspect -- now been identified as 20 year-old Trenton Grant -- had fired four shots in an open area behind the housing units there. Samuelson says Grant is a black male... about 5-foot-8 inches tall... and, weighing 170 pounds.  He adds that Grant is also wanted by Lakewood-Busti Police in connection with the theft of the hand-gun used in the shooting, a safe, lap-top computer and jewelry from a Lakewood home last Thursday.  Samuelson says another Jamestown man... 20 year-old Isaiah Pearson... is also wanted in connection with the theft in Lakewood.  Samuelson says the victim underwent emergency surgery at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania... and, is stable with non-life threatening wounds.  Samuelson says the motive for the shooting is not known...but, adds there was allegedly some kind of confrontation that led to it.  If you have any information... you're asked to contact Jamestown Police at 483-7537... or the anonymous tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

A Warren, Pennsylvania man has been arrested for allegedly raping and sexually assaulting a woman for 27 years.  State Police in Warren say they arrested 66 year-old William Gisselbrecht-the-third yesterday following an investigation on his relationship with the unidentified woman from 1976 to 2003.  Troopers say Gisselbrecht was arrested on a warrant at his home... and, arraigned in District Court on multiple counts including rape and aggravated indecent assault.  He was sent to the Warren County Jail on 200-thousand dollars bail.

 

There's still one public school system that has yet to begin the new school year in Chautauqua County... and, that's in Bemus Point... where classes begin today.  That from Superintendent Mike Mansfield... who says they're ready for a full-day for ALL students... including their new full-day Pre-K.  Mansfield says they decided to delay starting school for a day compared to other districts in recent years so staff can better prepare to meet the new state standards for teaching, and testing. Mansfield says there's one project they're finishing up at Bemus Point Elementary School... and, that's installation of a new roof.  He says the rainy weather this Summer delayed some of that work.  But... Mansfield says the most intrusive work is done.  The Elementary School held it's open house last night.  Mansfield adds their next capital project remains in the "planning phase" at this point.

 

The Jamestown Public Works Department will be doing paving work the next two weeks on portions of West Second and West Third Streets -- beginning tomorrow (today).  DPW Director Jeff Lehman says the work on both Second and Third Streets will be done from Washington Street to Main Street.  Lehman says there will be driving lane restrictions... parking restrictions... and, temporary road closures in these project areas will begin tomorrow (Thursday) through Friday, September 19th.  He says motorists should expect delays when travelling through this project area... and, should use alternate routes of travel.  As always, you should use extra caution while driving through this, and other, construction areas.

 

Former Buffalo-area Congresswoman Kathy Hochul's (HOE-kuhl's) bid to become New York's next lieutenant governor has been endorsed by New York City's mayor as she pushes back against a Democratic Primary challenger who has questioned her liberal credentials.  Mayor Bill de Blasio called Hochul a progressive who stood up for her beliefs in Congress.  De Blasio announced his endorsement yesterday at a City Hall appearance where Hochul vowed to support liberal priorities... like a higher minimum wage, and the Dream Act for young immigrants.

 

Several people close to discussions tell The Associated Press on condition of anonymity that at least three groups have entered final negotiations to buy the Buffalo Bills.  Buffalo Sabres owners Terry and Kim Pegula... real estate mogul Donald Trump... and, a Toronto-based group that had included rocker Jon Bon Jovi have received formal documents in advance of a bid deadline on Monday.

 

One of the Buffalo Zoo's young polar bears, Luna, is recovering after surgery to repair a broken leg.  Luna fell about 14-feet into a protective moat on Saturday.  On Tuesday... zoo officials said that X-rays revealed she fractured her tibia and fibula above the ankle joint on her left rear leg.  The 1-year-old underwent surgery to repair the fracture on Sunday.

News Update for Wed., Sept. 3, 2014

(**New)Four arrested during separate Heroin busts in Jamestown this morning...

Four people have been arrested as part of three separate raids early this morning in the city of Jamestown at suspected drug houses.  City Police drug investigators... and, members of the State Police C-NET Team... executed search warrants at 52 Franklin St., 58 Franklin St., and, 61 Franklin St. about 6 a.m., and, took the four into custody... and, seized about 260 doses of Heroin, a sawed-off shotgun... and, a large amount of cash.  Three of the people... 37 year-old Jose Sanquiche... 30 year-old Juan Vargas-Lopez... and, 26 year-old Stephanie Castro... were charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  The fourth person... 62 year-old Raul Rodriguez-Colon... was found with a sawed-off shotgun at 61 Franklin Street.  All four were taken to the city jail where they're awaiting arraignment.  Anyone with information on narcotics related sales can call City Police at 483-7537... or their Tip-Line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.


Alleged shooter identified in Appleyard Terrace shooting...

Jamestown police have now identified a man allegedly involved in a burglary last week in Lakewood as the man who is accused of shooting another city man last night.  JPD Captain Bob Samuelson says 20 year-old Trenton Grant allegedly shot the unidentified victim twice behind the Appleyard Terrace housing units.  The victim is now in stable condition at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, PA.  In addition to Grant... police are looking for another Jamestown man... 20 year-old Isaiah Pearson... who is also wanted in connection with the theft in Lakewood.  Among the items taken in Lakewood was a hand-gun.  Samuelson says the victim underwent emergency surgery at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania early yesterday morning.  He says the man's wounds are considered non-life threatening.  If you have any information on the incident... you are asked to contact Jamestown Police at 483-7537... or the anonymous tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477. 

 

News Update for Wed., Sept. 3, 2014

(**Update)City man shot twice Tuesday night, now in stable condition at Erie, PA hospital...

A man who was shot twice by another man behind the Appleyard Terrace in Jamestown early last night is now in stable condition.  That from City Police Captain Bob Samuelson... who says officers were called to the scene at 608 East Second Street just before 7:30 p.m.  Samuelson says they found the unidentified victim... and, learned the suspect had fired four shots in an open area behind the housing units there.  He says the shooter fled... and, dropped the gun... which was recovered by police.  They know who he is... and, are looking for him.  Samuelson says they know who the shooter is... and, says they will get out a description, name and photo later in the day if they need additional public help.  Samuelson says the victim underwent emergency surgery at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie, PA early this morning.  He says the man is in stable condition with non-life threatening wounds.  Samuelson says the motive for the shooting is not known...but, adds there was allegedly some kind of confrontation that led to it.  If you have any information on the incident... you are asked to contact Jamestown Police at 483-7537... or the anonymous tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

 

 

WJTN News Headlines

One person was shot twice behind Appleyard Terrace in Jamestown Tuesday evening.  Jamestown Police report the shooting happened just before 7:30pm.  Four shots were fired at a male victim as he walked in an open area behind the housing units in the block of 600 East 2nd Street.  At last word the victim was in surgery at Hamot Medical Center in Erie.  Investigators have recovered the pistol near the scene of the incident and are working to locate the suspect.  Anyone who may have information on the incident is asked to contact Jamestown Police at 483-7537 or the anonymous tip line 483-8477. 

 

A "street-level" Heroin dealer in Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trafficking the narcotic in the area in recent weeks... and, was found with about 125 doses of the illegal drug.  Agents with the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force say they raided the Terrace Place apartment of 26 year-old William Rogers just before 7:30 yesterday morning... and, found the suspect... along with more than 12 bundles of heroin, and a large amount of cash, scales and other drug paraphernalia... and, a quantity of marijuana.  Sheriff Joe Gerace calls it a "good bust..." Gerace credited Lieutenant Dave Bentley and the task force for their good work.  They say Rogers was arrested without incident... and, arraigned on the initial charges of third-degree criminal sale... and, possession of a controlled substance.  Agents say he faces several additional counts of those charges... and, others.  Task Force members add they also obtained additional information... and, the investigation is continuing.  Rogers is jailed without bail.  Anyone with additional information is asked to call the Task Force Hotline at 1-800-344-8702. 

 

All 18 school districts in Chautauqua County will be open today... and, Sheriff Joe Gerace says his department and others will be out making sure the roads are safe for school buses and students.  Gerace says it's important for drivers to be aware that school is starting... and, that they should be on the look-out for children walking to school... and, getting on and off of buses. Gerace adds that younger kids will also tend to be "excited" for the first day of class... and, may dart in and out of traffic.  He also warns motorists that they need to stop for a school bus when the red flashing lights come on.  He adds that's even on a four-lane highway.  Gerace says the penalties for passing a stopped bus that's picking up or letting off students were increased just a few years ago.  He adds that most school zones have a 20-MPH speed limit... and, police will be enforcing that. Most students are walkers in Jamestown... so motorists are urged to watch for them -- especially children that may dart out between parked vehicles.  City Police Captain Todd Issacson also reminds drivers of the 20 MPH Speed Limit in school zones... he adds students should never talk to strangers or accept rides from strangers... and, use sidewalks.  Issacson adds that students should also know their phone number and address, as well as how to dial 9-1-1.

 

School begins in most all Chautauqua County schools today... but, it won't be a full-day in the Jamestown public schools.  That from School Superintendent Tim Mains... who says teachers and staff have had a busy summer preparing to teach the next phase of Common Core standards in the district.  Mains says there was a full-day of staff development Tuesday... and, adds there'll be more today -- once classes conclude for the day. Mains says a lot of teachers and others attended "staff development" programming over the Summer... which they felt was beneficial.  He adds a lot of construction and renovation work on some of the schools is wrapping up today.  Mains says that includes work at Ring Elementary School on a new entrance off the parking lot... and, a new bus entrance.  He adds Lincoln also has a new suite of modular classrooms for fourth and fifth-graders.  Mains says there is NO changes in the start times for the district's elementary... middle and high schools this year.

 

We are ready."  That from Southwestern Central School Superintendent Maureen Donahue about the start of the 2014-2015 School year today.  Donahue says start times for the elementary, middle and high schools are the same as they were last year.  She adds teachers and staff have been working hard to get the schools... and, classrooms ready for today. While it's considered a full-day for all students at Southwestern... Donahue says it'll be a slightly shortened day for the elementary school as they adjust to their schedule.  She says enrollment numbers are up slightly in the district -- especially at the Elementary level.  However... she says those will fluctuate.  Donahue adds Southwestern has a new website.  It's on-line at swcs-dot-wnyric-dot-ORG.

    

The contribution rates paid by state and local governments for New York's pension fund will go down as the retirement system continues to rebound from the 2008 downturn.  Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says the average rate will decrease from 20.1-percent of salary for most public workers to 18.2 percent.  For local police and firefighters... the employer rate will drop from 27.6-percent of payroll to 24.7-percent.

News Update for Tues., Sept. 2, 2014

City man arrested for allegedly trafficking Heroin in Jamestown-area...

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly trafficking Heroin in the city in recent weeks... and, being found with over 12 bundles of the illegal drug.  Agents with the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force say they raided the Terrace Place apartment of 26 year-old William Rogers just before 7:30 this morning... and, found the suspect... along with heroin -- totaling about 125 doses -- and, a large amount of cash, scales and other drug paraphernalia... and, a quantity of marijuana.  Task Force members say Rogers was arrested without incident... and, arraigned on the initial charges of third-degree criminal sale... and, possession of a controlled substance.  Agents say he faces several additional counts of those charges... and, others.  Task Force members add they also obtained additional information... and, the investigation is continuing.  Anyone with information on illegal narcotics activity in their community is asked to call the Task Force Hotline at 1-800-344-8702. 

 

Reed to file legislation to renew SRO program for five-years...

There is an effort afoot to renew the School Resource Officer program in the federal Community-Oriented Police program for another five-years.  On this day before classes begin in most schools districts across the region... Local Congressman Tom Reed says he'll be filing a renewal of the COPS program that includes the SRO component.  Reed says he spoke with several school superintendents, teachers, parents and others in recent months... and, says they were pretty much unanimous that it's a program that needs to be renewed.  Reed says the overall COPS Program totals about $1-billion... while the School Resource Officer program would total about $30-million.  He believes the votes are there... on both sides of the political aisle... to fund the program.

WJTN News Headlines

The skys brightened... and, the threat of rain burned off by early afternoon... and, Jamestown's 35th annual Labor Day Festival was in full-swing. The local rock group "The Bogarts" were among the bands entertaining at the yearly event... which was delayed by a day due to heavy rains on Sunday.  Partly sunny skys and 80-degree temperatures greated festival-goers... and, others celebrating labor's contribution to the American landscape.  During the afternoon's George Ritzer Labor Award presentation... Jamestown-Area Central Labor Council President Dave Wilkinson says Labor Day remains a big part of strengthening the community. Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi also took the opportunity to thank the city's 460 member work force... including the police and fire departments... and, Board of Public Utilities.  He also put out a special thanks to the city's Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department for it's efforts to get Bergman Park ready for the festival... and, the work employees do at all the parks across the city.  Yesterday's festival was capped off by a huge fireworks display before several-thousand on-lookers.

 

The presentation of the annual George Ritzer Labor Award yesterday was an historic one.  The award is given annually to a member of local labor who goes above and beyond the call of duty for not just their union... but, the community as well.  Central Labor Council President Dave Wilkinson says Valerie Hagglund is only the second woman to receive the award... which has been presented yearly since 1984. Wilkinson says Hagglund has been a member of Association of Jamestown Paraprofessionals of NYSUT Local-04-217 for 18 years... 16 of those as president of the NYSUT Local.  She recalled the help she received early on as an officer with the organization from mentor Steve Maggio... who told her that if she was going to stick with it... she would need a "fire in her belly."  Hagglund... who is union co-president this year... was nominated by the Labor Council committee's George Spitale. She's been very involved in the schools her children attended in Jamestown as an officer in the PTA and PTO groups... raised money for the local March of Dimes, and has been very involved with her local church.

 

A new study released on Labor Day suggests the number of working-age New Yorkers who identified themselves as union members rose in the last 18 months.  The study was conducted by two professors at the City University of New York Graduate Center.  They found that nearly one in four working New Yorkers belonged to labor unions.  The New York Times says that compared to slightly more than one in five at the start of 2013.  They say the rebound was mainly caused by a surge in construction and hotel industry hiring.

 

Jamestown's 'Mr. Baseball'... Russ Diethrick... said he wasn't sure he could look back as he left the stadium yesterday.  The ballpark that bears his name saw it's last professional baseball games Monday, as the Jamestown Jammers split a doubleheader.  The team is moving to Morgantown, West Virginia next summer.  A large crowd was on hand, buying up all the Jammer's merchandise they could find.  The team's General Manager, Matt Drayer, thanked all the fans, and said he was a heartbroken as they are over the loss of the team.  Influencial members of the baseball community continue to express optimism that some kind of 'new league' would come to Russell E. Diethrick Jr. Park next year. 

 

A city man has been arrested for allegedly assaulted his girlfriend at an apartment in downtown Jamestown early last weekend.  City police were called to the scene at 607 Pine Street about 7:30 AM Saturday.  Officers spoke with the victim when they arrived... and, they later found 40 year-old Alberto Santiago on Prendergast Avenue later in the morning.  Police say Santiago was arrested without incident.  Officers say he faces several charges... including third-degree assault... and, second-degree unlawful imprisonment and strangulation.  He's being held pending arraignment. 

 


The case against two homeless men accused of killing a New York City concert violinist in the Town of Westfield nearly two weeks ago will likely go next to a federal Grand Jury.  That from U-S Attorney William Hochul, Junior following a detention hearing late last week for 43 year-old Jonathan Conklin and 30-year-old Charles Sanford.  Both men allegedly lured 61 year-old Mary Whitaker to her front door the morning of August 20th on the ruse their car had broken down.  Hochul says Whitaker was then allegedly shot and stabbed by the pair. Hochul says an Assistant U-S Prosecutor laid out some of the details about how Whitaker was killed during a robbery at her summer home on Titus Road.  He says the "ruse" began with knocks at her door early in the morning of August 20th.  An autopsy determined she died of a gun-shot wound to the chest.  Conklin and Sanford have pleaded not guilty to the federal charges... which include stealing property and taking it across state lines... and, carjacking during commission of a murder.

News Update for Mon., Sept. 1, 2014

Study says number of workers identifying themselves as members of unions are up over past year-and-a-half...

A new study suggests the number of working-age New Yorkers who identified themselves as members of labor unions rose in the last 18 months.  The study was conducted by two professors at the City University of New York Graduate Center.  They found that nearly one in four working New Yorkers belonged to labor unions.  The New York Times says that compared to slightly more than one in five at the start of 2013.  The primary cause for the rebound appeared to be a surge in construction and hotel industry hiring -- not the campaigns for better pay and benefits by fast-food workers and other low-earners.


Labor Day Festival rescheduled for today until 9 p.m....

Sunday's rains and standing water forced Jamestown city officials to call off the annual Labor Festival to today... when better weather conditions are forecast.  The only event that took place yesterday was the annual Dan Feather 5-K Run-walk... which took place at 9:30 a.m.  City Parks and Recreation Director Julia Ciesla-Hanley says the music gets underway on the Main Stage at Noon... and, the second stage at 12:30 p.m.  The first group there will be "Teachers, Preachers and Trent."  Ciesla-Hanley says a new group will perform there at 3 p.m., "The New Tenants."  They're a group involved with the Infinity program.  Cindy Love is the final performer on the second stage.  The final group to take the Main Stage will be "Two for Flinching" which will play until the fireworks show just after 8:30 p.m.  Ciesla-Hanley says they'll also have other -- "family-friendly" -- events going on... including Kids Games from 2 to 6 p.m.  She adds they'll also have Bingo, a Magic Show, and Karoke.  Ciesla-Hanley says 13 organizations and civic groups will be selling for and refreshments... including the Jamestown and Falconer High School Marching Bands.


Hagglund to get Ritzer Labor Award...

One of the high-lights during the day at the annual Labor Day Festival is presentation of the George Ritzer Labor Award.  The award is given annually to a member of local labor who goes above and beyond the call of duty for not just their union... but, the community as well.  Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi says the award has been given out since the mid-1980s by the Jamestown Central Labor Council.  This year's Ritzer Award is being presented to Valerie Hagglund of the Association of Jamestown Paraprofessionals of NYSUT Local-04-217.


Two arrested in Ellery drug bust after traffic stop...

Two men were arrested early this weekend for allegedly being in possession of Heroin... and, a large amount of money when their car was pulled over in the town of Ellery.  Sheriff's Deputies say they stopped the vehicle... driven by 27 year-old Dennis Syper of Mayville... about 10:30 p.m. last Friday night for failure to keep right.  Officers say they spotted a number of envelopes containing heroin inside the car.  Deputies brought in K-9 "Mitchell" to do a vehicle search... and, he found the drugs.  Police add Syper was allegedly found to be under the influence of drugs.  He and his passenger... 37 year-old Cesar Luis-Soto of Jamestown... were charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  The money was seized.  Syper was charged with DWI-Drugs, and failure to keep right.  Both men will appear in Ellery Town Court at a later date.

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