Jefferson Project leaders present first full report of findings on Harmful Algal Bloom issue...
Reducing the amount of phosphorous and nitrogen that gets into Chautauqua Lake is the key to reducing or eliminating harmful algal blooms in the lake.  That from researchers from the Jefferson Project... which was brought in three years ago to look at the problem... and, recommend solutions.  The two principles in the project... Technical Director Kevin Rose of Renssalear Polytechnic Institute... and, Harry Kolar with IBM Research... recently presented their findings to the county legislature.  Rose says dropping phospherous levels is especially important in cutting the toxicity of the blooms through annual management.  Rose and Kolar add that monitoring is also critical in preventing loss of oxygen at various depths of the lake which also contribute to creating cynobacteria... which also fuels the algal blooms.  Kolar says they're now putting in stream stations around the lake to monitor sedimentation coming into the lake.  The Chautauqua County Legislature last year approved using $1-million from American Rescue Plan Act funding for the Jefferson Project the past year.  Chautauqua Institution... and, the Sheldon Foundation are also involved.  Harmful algal blooms have wreaked havoc on the lake... forcing swimming areas to be closed once they appear. 

Dolce says East Second St. improvement project will move ahead without bike lane...
While the Jamestown City Council has nixed a plan to create a bicycle lane on East Second Street... the major project to upgrade the road from West Fourth Street to Tiffany Avenue will move forward.  That from City Council President Tony Dolce... who says the decision to reject creation of a bike lane was a very difficult one.  Following the panel's 3-to-6 vote... against the measure... Dolce said lawmakers had to make a decision on the proposal by Monday night so the design work on the project can go forward.  He went back to comments by fellow Councilman Bill Reynolds... who supported moving ahead with a bike lane as part of an effort to improve that stretch of East Second.  Reynolds felt council should trust what their public works, and transporation experts are telling them... about it improving safety.  However, Dolce says a lot of people "get frustrated by the changes" that get made.  He says the East Second Street improvement project will be moving forward over the next year or so... and, it's badly needed for vehicular traffic there... along with the residents and businesses there.

Hochul signs new law expanding definition of rape... (includes mature subject matter)...
New York state will expand its legal definition of rape to include various forms of nonconsensual sexual contact, under a bill signed into law Tuesday by Governor Kathy Hochul.  The state’s current limited definition was a factor in writer E. Jean Carroll’s sexual abuse and defamation case against former President Donald Trump.  The jury in the federal civil trial rejected the writer’s claim last May that Trump had raped her in the 1990s, instead finding the former president responsible for a lesser degree of sexual abuse.  The current law defines rape as vaginal penetration by a penis.  The new law broadens the definition to include nonconsensual anal, oral, and vaginal sexual contact.  Highlighting Carroll's case at a bill signing ceremony in Albany... Hochul -- a Democrat -- said the new definition will make it easier for rape victims to bring cases forward to prosecute perpetrators.  The law will apply to sexual assaults committed on or after Sept. 1.

Two Jamestown residents face drug charges following traffic stop...
Two people from Jamestown face drug-related charges after their car was stopped for a traffic violation on the city's northside.  Jamestown Police say a patrol pulled over the vehicle... driven by 35 year-old Andrew Cooley... just after 5 p.m. Monday.  Officers say they found that Cooley was under the influence of drugs.  Police say they found a quantity of methamphetamine inside the vehicle... and was in the possession of the passenger... identified as 37 year-old Karen Danson.  Both Cooley and Danson were taken into custody without incident.  Cooley was charged with driving while Ability Impaired by drugs... failure to signal within 100 feet of a turn... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a Controlled Substance.  Police say Danson was also charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Cooley was held pending arraignment... while Danson was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Fugitive from Florida caught in Jamestown...
A 48 year-old man has been arrested as a fugitive from justice following a traffic stop Monday in the area of West Seventh and Lafayette Streets.  City police say they stopped the car for observed traffic infractions just after 2 p.m., and, found that a passenger, Selwyn Goodlow... had outstanding warrants from the state of Florida.  Goodlow was taken to the city jailpending arraignment on a Felony Fugitive from Justice charge.   

Buffalo man arrested for child endangerment in Cassadaga area...
A Buffalo man has been arrested for allegedly endangering a child during an incident earlier this month in the town of Stockton.  Sheriff's offcers say their investigation of the Jan. 3 incident on Maple Avenue in Cassadaga led to the arrest of 41 year-old Ian Lewis.  Details of the incident were not released.  Lewis was charged with endangering the welfare of a child... and, issued an appearance ticket for Stockton Town Court at a later date.

City Council rejects proposed eastbound bike lane on East Second St....
The Jamestown City Council has rejected a proposal to create an eastbound bike lane on East Second Street from East Fourth to Tiffany Avenue.  Lawmakers voted 3-to-6 against the "Complete Streets" plan that would include upgrades to the street, and new striping.  There were two major concerns... the first being safety.  Councilman Brent Sheldon said that's because parking would be eliminated on the eastbound side... and, if people can only park on the other side of the street that could create a "very dangerous" situation for people having to cross the street.  The other concern was over safety... and, Councilman Jeff Russell, who's a retired Jamestown police officer, witnessed a fatal accident on that busy street some years back.  Russell says he's also concerns about the safety of people going to The Resource Center's Clinic.  The Resource Center has on-street parking in front of it's East Second Street clinic that includes one handicapped space.  One of the three lawmakers who voted for the plan... Bill Reynolds... argued that their experts from the Public Works Department and the state Department of Transportation supported the proposal... which they believed would have a "calming effect" on motor vehicle traffic.  In addition to Reynolds... Joe Paterniti and David Daversa voted for the measure.

All but one member of the public who spoke on propsed bike lane opposed the project...
A handful of residents sounded off on the bike lane proposal prior to the council vote... with most opposing it.  One was East Second Street resident Denise Hutchison... who says the change would be a big inconvenience for her and her neighbors... as well as long-time business there.  Hutchison says she "doesn't want to park four blocks from my house.  I don't believe that's fair."  She adds there are a number of businesses on that street that would lose a significant amount of parking under the plan.  One resident... Andrew Dickson... who spoke in favor of the proposal during last week's work session... says he believes converting East Second to a "Complete Street" could be a "win-win" for that part of the city because bike lanes have lower vacancy rates, higher tax collection... and, maybe some homes will be reverted back to single-family homes.

Buffalo man arrested in connection with last week's homicide in Jamestown...
A Buffalo man has been arrested in connection with last Wedneday's alleged homicide that occured at the Parkview Apartments in Jamestown.  City police say they and several other agencies... including the Chautauqua County Forensic Investigation Team... responded to the scene and were able to quickly identify a suspect.  Last Thursday... city police detectives were helped by the FBI and Buffalo Police in a search for the suspect... who was later found to be in possession of a loaded, 9-millimeter pistol.  The unidentified suspect was arrested by Buffalo Police and is being held on charges in Erie County.  Police officials say the investigation into the death of 28 year-old Marlon Clay of Buffalo is continuing... and, charges are expected.  Clay was found, unresponsive, on the floor of an apartment at 401 West Fourth St.  The Chautauqua County District Attorneys' Office is also assisting with the investigation. 

Jamestown-area drug trafficker's wife pleads guilty to aiding his drug dealing efforts...
A Jamestown woman has pleaded guilty to allegedly being involved in a local drug conspiracy with her husband from 2018 to early 2020.  U.S. Attorney Trini Ross announced Monday that 37 year-old Stacey Beardsley... also known as Stacey Peterson... entered the plea before U.S. District Court Judge Michael Roemer to misprision of felony, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison.  Prosecutors say that Beardsley's husband, Rocco, was involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy.  He bought and distributed large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area.  They say Stacey Beardsley knew of these drug trafficking activities, financially benefited from them, and actively concealed and assisted in her husband's activities.  Following Rocco Beardsley's arrest in May 2019... he called her from jail and asked her to go to Erie, Pennsylvania to get his “stuff.”  She didn't notify any authorities about the request, and instead drove to Erie as requested to pick up his "stuff... including drugs.  On her way back to Jamestown... Stacey Beardsley was stopped by police, and they found quantities of methamphetamine and heroin during a search.  Two undercover drug buys were made from Rocco Beardsley in January of 2020... and, his wife again failed to notify authorities.

Jamestown man arrested on domestic violence charges...     
A city man faces several domestic violence-related charges after allegedly hitting, and, strangling a woman and threatening to kill her several times late Saturday night.  Jamestown police were called to an unidentified northside address around Noon Sunday... and, made contact with the victim.  Officers say she told them about the incident... which began with an argument before turning physical.  Police say 52 year-old Maurice Akins allegedly chased the victim into another room where he grabbed her around the neck... and, struck her multiple times in the face... injuring her.  After a brief struggle... the victim told police that Akins let her run from the home.  They add that a 16 year-old girl... who was present during the assault... had an order of protection against Akins... who had fled to his home.  During his arrest... officers were told by the victims that Akins had multiple firearms inside his home.  One was a loaded, semi-automatic pistol that Akins does not have a state pistol permit for.  He faces charges including: second-degree strangulation and unlawful imprisonment... third-degree assault... and, criminal possession of a firearm.
 

Man confirmed dead in Kennedy house fire Sunday...
The investigation is ongoing into a fatal mobile home fire in Kennedy Sunday morning that claimed the life of a 68 year-old man.  State Police Public Information Officer Trooper James O'Callahan confirms the call came in just after 8 a.m. on the Poland Center Rd. in the town of Poland.  The man's name is not being released pending notification of relatives... and O'Callahan says the man was the only person living in the house.  Chautauqua County Fire dispatchers say Kennedy fire crews were assisted by several other companies at the scene.  Many trucked water to the scene.  O'Callahan says the State Police Forensic Identification Team is investigating the death... and the Sheriff's Office Fire Investigation Team is looking into the cause of the blaze.

Jamestown man arrested following violent domestic incident on northside...     
A city man faces several domestic violence-related charges after allegedly hitting, and, strangling a woman and threatening to kill her several times late Saturday night.  Jamestown police were called to an unidentified northside address around Noon Sunday... and, made contact with the victim.  Officers say she told them about the incident... which began with an argument before turning physical.  Police say 52 year-old Maurice Akins allegedly chased the victim into another room where he grabbed her around the neck... and, struck her multiple times in the face... injuring her.  After a brief struggle... the victim told police that Akins let her run from the home.  They add that a 16 year-old girl... who was present during the assault... had an order of protection against Akins... who had fled to his home.  During his arrest... officers were told by the victims that Akins had multiple firearms inside his home.  One was a loaded, semi-automatic pistol that Akins did not have a state pistol permit for.  He was arrested on charges including for second-degree strangulation and unlawful imprisonment... third-degree assault... criminal possession of a firearm... and, endangering the welfare of a child.

City man again arrested for allegedly domestic incidents...
A city man arrested multiple times in recent weeks for domestic disputes was arrested again after similar incidents this past weekend.  Jamestown police were called to a southside address about 11:30 p.m. Saturday... and, found that 44 year-old Thomas Papaserge had violated an order of protection the victim had against him at that time... and, earlier in the day.  At 6 a.m., officers say they found that Papaserge had put his hands around the victim's neck... choking them.  He's then accused of grabbing the victim by the hair and holding them down when they tried to leave.   Papaserge is then accused of dragging the victim into an apartment, and preventing them from leaving.  Around 11 p.m. Saturday... police found the pair got into another dispute... and, this time Papaserge is accused of raising a pipe wrench towards the victim... and, threatening them with it.  He then punched the victim multiple times before trying to again choke them.  Papaserge was arrested on three counts of first-degree criminal contempt... second-degree menacing... two counts of criminal obstruction of breathing... second-degree harassment and unlawful imprisonment...third-degree assault... and aggravated criminal contempt. 

Langworthy non-committal on run for re-election...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy says he's been so busy with work that he hasn't given much thought to next Fall's election.  The Buffalo-area Republican just finished up a chaotic first year... which featured a pair of Speaker fights... and, a committee investigation into the son of President Joe Biden.  Langworthy says don't expect a flashy announcement once he decides he's going to run again.  He says he is plenty busy with the job most days, and says there's plenty of time yet for a formal announcement.  Langworthy was at the Jamestown Board of Public Utlities late last week to tour the plant... and, push for New York to allow full natural gas exploration and production.  The stop at the BPU was one of several in the 23rd Congressional District he made while on a break that began Thursday morning.  Langworthy was in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties... and, then was heading off to Corning and the eastern end of the district Friday.  The other variable involved with an announcement is the recent court decision to have the state's Independent Redistricting Commission take another crack at redrawing the state's 26 districts.  The commission has been given until late February to redraw the Congressional maps.

Jamestown man accused of breaking into ex-girlfriend's home last weekend...
A city man is accused of texting his ex-girlfriend... who had an order of protection against him... from inside her apartment while she was still at work.  Jamestown police say they received a call from the woman just before 11 a.m. last Saturday that she had received multiple texts from 28 year-old Patrick Fellows... and, feared that he may have gone to her home.  She told officers she tried to check her interior security cameras, but, they would not connect.  The woman added that she had the "stay-away" order against him.  Police responded to the woman's southside apartment... and, saw Fellows inside.  They called out multiple times for Fellows to come out... but he did not respond.  After a short stand-off... he came out peacefully... and, was arrested for second-degree burglary... third-degree criminal tampering... and, two counts of second-degree criminal contempt.  Fellows was jailed pending arraignment. 

City man accused of texting ex-girlfriend, and breaking into her apartment...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly texting his ex-girlfriend, who had an order of protection against him, from inside her apartment while she was still at work.  City police say they received a call from the woman just before 11 a.m. Saturday that she had received multiple texts from 28 year-old Patrick Fellows... and, feared that he may have gone to her home.  She told officers say she tried to check her interior security cameras, but, they refused to connect.  She added that she had the "stay-away" order against him.  Police responded to the woman's southside apartment... and, saw Fellows inside.  Police called out multiple times for Fellows to come out... but he did not respond.  After a short stand-off... he came out peacefully... and, was arrested for second-degree burglary... third-degree criminal tampering... and, two counts of second-degree criminal contempt.  Fellows was jailed pending arraignment. 

Jamestown woman faces multiple drug-related charges following Thursday morning raid...
A months-long investigation into the trafficking of several kinds of narcotic drugs in the city of Jamestown led to one arrest during a raid Thursday morning.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, along with Jamestown and Dunkirk police executed a search warrant at 304 Hebner St., and, found 49 year-old Tanya Colburn inside.  Investigators say a search of the home led to the seizure of quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, Suboxone, prescription pills, scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics... and cash.  They say Colburn was charged with five counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and tampering with physical evidence.  Police say Colburn was issued appearance tickets for city court.  If you have any information on the illegal sale of drugs, other other crimes, call the JPD tip line at 716-483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  For the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line call 1-800-344-8702 or 716-664-2420.

Man and woman from Jamestown face multiple drug charges...
A man and woman from Jamestown have been arrested on several drug related charges following a traffic stop early Wednesday morning on the city's southside.  Jamestown police say they pulled over the car in the area of Newland Ave. and Myrtle St. just after Midnight after spotting a traffic violation.  Officers say their investigation located 15.3-grams of cocaine... along with other quantities of fentanyl... suboxone strips... clonazapam pills and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.  Police identified the driver as 38 year-old Brook Patterson... and, her passenger as 33 year-old Terry Kendall.  Kendall was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... three counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled Substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug parphernalia.  He was held pending arraignment.  Patterson is charged with second-degree criminally using paraphernalia... and, various traffic citations.  She was released with appearance tickets for city court.

Langworthy says new federal report shows weakness in NYS move away from natural gas...
A new federal report critical of Western New York energy readiness during Winter Storm Elliott in December of 2022 is being highlighted in a new push for an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy.  That was highlighted during a visit by local Congressman Nick Langworthy to the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Thursday afternoon.  Langworthy says the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission found New York's push to curtail or eliminate the use of nature gas exposed the region to a near catastrophic result -- especially in the Buffalo area.  Buffalo endured at least three consecutive days of blizzard like conditions that led to 47 deaths.  Langworthy says Gov. Kathy Hochul and other Democratic leaders would rather see a "Green New Deal" than help provide the natural gas that heat's most homes in the area... and, powers the BPU's Gas Turbine.  Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel agreed with Langworthy... noting that Chautauqua County was the state's birthplace to natural gas with the first ever well in the state.  Langworthy called on the governor and state legislature to lift the state's ban on fracking... which was first instituted several years ago by former Governor Andrew Cuomo.  He also announced that he was part of the effort to reintroduce House bill number-one from last year: the "Energy Choice Act" which he says would stop Democrats from banning natural gas production and use.  Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund was also on hand for the event.

Ribbon cut on new Chautauqua Art Gallery & Custom Framing location...
On the occasion of its sixth-anniversary, the Chautauqua Art Gallery became the Chautauqua Art Gallery and Custom Framing Friday... the ribbon was cut.  Owner Leslie Calimeri moved the business from Lakewood to 318 North Main St in Jamestown two years ago. Calimeri says she was able to purchase the former Custom Frame and Glass Shop... which had been across the street in Jamestown for 23 years.  That business had been run by Dan Gates.  Leslie Calimeri says they have hundreds of wood styles to choose from and ‘no limits’ as to what they can frame.  Many dignitaries attended the ribbon cutting, including City Council President Tony Dolce, who told the crowd he’d like to see similar grand openings every day.  Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce President Dan Heitzenrater says this was their fifth ribbon cutting of the year so far, after 75 last year.

Jamestown man arrested for trespassing at city establishment following alleged "physical confrontations...."
A city man has been arrested on a trespassing charge after allegedly entering a bar on Jamestown's northside bar early this morning and getting into "physical confrontations" with multiple customers.  City police called to the Wine Cellar at 309 North Main St. about 2:40 a.m., and, learned that 29 year-old Robert Cordero had earlier been told to leave the establishment.  He was also told not to return... but, he did.  Cordero was arrested without further incident... and, was arraigned on one count of third-degree criminal trespassing.  He was released pending a future court appearance.

Death of man found unresponsive on apartment floor being investigated...
Jamestown police are confirming that they are investigating the "suspicious" death of a man found inside a westside apartment complex Wednesday.  However... details are very sketchy at this point.  The Post-Journal reports that Jamestown firefighters were initally called to the Park View Aparments at 401 W. Fourth St. shortly after Noon for an unresponsive person spotted on the floor of an apartment.  A county coroner was called to the scene.  City police are calling the death suspicious, and it remains under investigation.

Craft beer company in Warren, Pa. purchasing former Jamestown Brewing Company...
A craft brewing company in Warren, Pennsylvania has now purchased the former Jamestown Brewing Company's location on West Third Street in Jamestown.  The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency board Tuesday approved a $950,000 low-interest loan to Wicked Warren's to purchase the building at 115-121 West Third.  IDA officials say the business will be operated by Robert Roth, who is also majority owner of the first Wicked Warren’s, already in operation in Warren, Pennsylvania.  IDA Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise says Roth will serve as president of the Jamestown operation... and, has 27 years of experience running his own business.  In addition, the proposed Jamestown business will include a vice president and head brewer with over 15 years of brewing experience, along with a front of house and banquet manager with 12 years of experience, both of whom currently work at the Wicked Warren’s location in Pennsylvania.  The opening date is planned for March of this year.

Man from Sherman arrested after damaging property during altercation...
A Sherman man faces several charges following an altercation in which he damaged another person's property... and, threatened others at the home.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the unidentified location in the village of Sherman just after 6 p.m. Tuesday on a report of some kind of dispute.  When they got there... deputies say their investigation showed that 24 year-old Trevor Kneer damaged the property... and, the incident occured in the presence of a young child.  Officers later arrested Kneer on two counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief... second-degree aggravated harassment... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Kneer was taken to the county jail... where he's being held pending centralized arraignment.

County Legislature approves added funding for safety and security equipment for eclipse viewing...
Chautauqua County lawmakers... after some debate... have approved taking nearly $200,000 out of reserve funds to purchase safety equipment for the viewing of the Total Solar Eclipse.  The request was made in committee by Director of Emergency Services Noel Guttman to purchase disaster computer software, medical supplies... back-up communications... and, two large message signs.  During Wednesday night's meeting... Fredonia Democrat Susan Parker opposed the measure... especially the two signs.  Parker also opposed using undesignated fund balance to fund it -- especially after the legislature denied allowing $1-million to be used from fund balance to lower taxes.  Sheridan Republican Terry Neibel later offered a compromise amendment to get the funding from the county's 3% occupancy -- or bed tax.  Since the eclipse viewing will draw visitors... he believed that might be a better way to go.  However... Majority Leader Dave Wilfong of Jamestown noted use of the bed tax was discussed... and, the county was told by some state leaders to not do it.  Neibel's amendment failed... and, the original resolution was approved in a straight party-line vote, 13-5.  Chautauqua County is considered to be one of the prime viewing areas for the Total Solar Eclipse on Mon., Apr. 8.

Jamestown School Board approves "Superintendent's Day" on Apr. 8th to allow eclipse viewing...
Students in the Jamestown Public Schools will have the entire day on Monday, April 8 to be able to witness the once in a lifetime Total Solar Eclipse.  The Jamestown School Board this week approved making that Monday a "Superintendent’s Conference Day" with no student attendance.  School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker says the decision was made following guidance regarding the expected influx of tourists and visitors to Chautauqua County due to the eclipse... which is to take place around dismissal time at 3:15 p.m. that day.  Whitaker says Apr. 8 was originally to be the first day back to school after the Spring Recess... which runs from Apr. 1-5.  He says the administration spoke with other districts... which are also planning to not be in session that day.  Whitaker says the district will be distributing viewing and safety information.  He says those items will be passed out to students and staff prior to the break.  He says NASA says viewing any part of the bright Sun without proper protection can instantly cause severe eye injury. 

Two city men arrested during back-to-back drug raids in Jamestown...
Two Jamestown men have been arrested following two early morning drug raids today on the city's northside.  Jamestown police say members of the Metro Drug Task Force... and, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators executed the first search warrant at 850 Prendergast Avenue... and located 45 year-old Ramon Nieves-Fagot inside along with a woman and a juvenile.  During a subsequent search... detectives found 75 vials of fentanyl... 26 vials of cocaine, a small quantity of methamphetamine... and, a small quantity of crack cocaine.  Nieves-Fagot was arrested and taken to the city jail where he was also found with 170 baggies of fentanyl... and, just over 16-hundred dollars in cash.  He's charged with two counts each of third and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Immediately following the first raid... the JPD SWAT Team... and, narcotics detectives raided the home at 13 Crossman Street.  They found 41 year-old Jarvelle Leeper... and a woman inside.  Detectives say they found 4.9-grams of fentanyl and packaging equipment used for the distribution of narcotics.  Leeper was arrested for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  He was also jailed pending arraignment.

Wood stove piping issue apparently triggers Busti house fire late Sunday night...
Chautauqua County fire investigators say the Monday overnight fire at a home on Forest Ave. Ext. just outside Jamestown "started in or around the wood stove piping."  No one was hurt in the blaze at 1619 Forest that began around 11:15 p.m. Sunday.  Firefighters from Busti and a dozen other departments battled the blaze through the night and into the morning.  Damage was extensive.  The Jamestown Post-Journal reports the home was owned by Dave and Kris Paterniti, longtime volunteers for the Jamestown High School Marching Band.  The band is encouraging support for the family through Kris Paterniti's Venmo account.

City council committee approves putting in eastbound bike lane on East Second St...
City lawmakers in Jamestown will vote next week on creating an eastbound bicycle lane on a large portion of East Second Street.  The City Council's Public Works Committee approved the move after receiving a lot of resident... and, other input since the proposal first came up on Jan. 8.  Jamestown native Andrew Dickson, who now lives just outside the city, spoke in favor the move.  Dickson adds more can be done on others as well that will help "calm traffic" in places downtown.  Dickson says he's seen bikes traveling on East Second between Fourth Street and Winsor Street -- even in recent days.  There is still some concern over residents who live on that side of East Second... and, would no longer be able to park there.  That was voiced earlier this month by Finance Committee Chairman Brent Sheldon... who says it could be a problem for children, and people having to carry items across that busy street.  However... Sheldon's committee did not act on the proposal since there were no financial implications involved.  The eastbound bike lane on East Second Street would run from East Fourth Street to Tiffany Avenue... and would be part of the city's "Complete Streets" resolution of 2012.

City man arrested for stealing items from Big Lots store...
Jamestown police were able to track down and arrest a city man last Saturday after he allegedly stole several items from the Big Lots store in Brooklyn Square.  City police were called to the scene just after 12 Noon for a reported shoplifting.  Officers were able -- soon after -- to track down 33 year-old Jacob Carr on a trail just off North Main Street.  Police say they also recovered all of the stolen items, and returned them to the store.  Carr was arrested for petty larceny... and, on an unrelated warrant... and, taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Wendel approves of having no new unfunded mandates in Gov. Hochul's new budget proposal...
While he'll continue to review Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed 2024-25 budget in the coming days... Chautauqua County's top elected official says the "most critical" aspect of her spending plan is the county will not have to deal with any new unfunded mandates.  County Executive P.J. Wendel received a briefing from the New York State Association of Counties on many of the budget details.  He says they also got a brief from the state's County Executive's group about it.  Meanwhile... Wendel says the county will also benefit from $16-million in state money to fund the Jefferson Project, a program for water quality and harmful algal bloom research at Chautauqua Lake.  He says they want to use that to support a new SMART Lake program to help those areas.  

Salary Review Commission to present findings to county legislature Wednesday night...
The Chautauqua County Legislature will soon consider recommendations to increase salaries for elected officials... which in some cases would be the first increases in 22 years.  That from Salary Review Commission Spokesperson Frank Beach of Dunkirk... who was joined by six other members of the panel in looking at salaries for the county executive, county legislators, the county clerk and sheriff.  Beach says none of those positions has seen an increase in a long time... with the last commission meeting 10 years ago, and none of the recommendations were adopted.  Beach says they were able to get information from several other counties across the state to provide salary information... and, how comparable the positions are to what's in Chautauqua County.  Beach says county executives in those other counties averaged about $144,000... and, with that recommended $127,000.  The current pay is $111,000.  The county clerk would go from $66,853 a year to $84,733... while the sheriff would increase from just over $100,000 to just over $110,000.  Legislator's pay would go from $9,000 a year to just over $14,000.  Beach will present their findings to the legislature tonight.  

Fire leaves town of Busti home a total loss...
A town of Busti home is reportedly a total loss following an overnight fire that heavily-damaged the structure on Forest Ave. Ext. in the town.  Chautauqua County Fire dispatchers say Busti fire crews were called to 1619 Forest about 11:15 p.m. Sunday... and, found the structure heavily-engulfed in flames.  Mutual aid was called in from over a dozen local departments... mainly to truck water to the scene.  Dispatchers says crews battled the blaze for several hours... with hot spots being doused until later morning.  They add that Forest Avenue remained closed for several hours between South Avenue and Mitchell Road.  No injuries were reported.  The county's Fire Investigation Team was called to the scene to look for the cause.  

North county man arrested for allegedly assaulting worker at UPMC Chautauqua...
A man from Dunkirk is accused of hitting and biting an employee at UPMC Chautauqua Hospital during an incident at the Jamestown hospital late last Friday night.  City police were called to the scene at 207 Foote Ave. shortly after 11 p.m.  Officers say they found that 23 year-old Armando Hernandez-Tirado had struck and bit the employee for an unknown reason.  Police found Hernandez-Tirado a short time later inside the hospital, and he was arrested without incident.  Officers charged him with second-degree assault... and, he was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

City woman accused of assaulting two women at Wine Cellar...     
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly punching two women in the face during a fight inside the bathroom at a northside bar early Saturday morning.  City police were called to the Wine Cellar at 309 North Main St. just before 1 a.m. for a reported fight turned assault.  Officers say 27 year-old Brianna Mercado punched both vicitims... multiple times... inside the bathroom.  One of the victims had to be treated for an injury... while the other did not.  Officers were able to locate and stop the vehicle that the Mercado fled in... and, she was taken into custody without incident.  Mercado was charged with third-degree assault... and, second-degree harassment.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

Langworthy introduces new Defense of Property Right's bill...
Chautauqua County's Congressional representative is taking up a renewed effort to protect property owners rights -- if New York state seizes their land to prevent natural gas development.  Buffalo-area Republican Nick Langworthy introduced the new Defense of Property Right's Act in December, and says it's gaining a lot of support early in the new Congress.  The measure was first introduced by retired Congressman Tom Reed in 2017... and, says several property owners in the region who had lease arrangements with natural gas companies were waiting for approval to go ahead with exploration when the state changed the rules.  Langworthy says he and others argue -- including fellow New York Republican Claudia Tenney -- that that violates the Fifth-Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.  He says the measure would establish "a more uniform and efficient federal process for protecting a property owners rights."  Langworthy says the property owners should have the ability to weigh-in on such decisions.  He argued that former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the state exceeded their authority by prevented those landowners from being able to lease their land for natural gas exploration.  The first term Republican says the measure will be on the docket for the House Judiciary Committee.

CVS Pharmacy employee accused of stealing 120 Hydrocodone pills...
An employee at the CVS Pharmacy in Jamestown's Brooklyn Square has been arrested for allegedly stealing dozens of hydrocodone pills from the store last weekend.  City police were called to the location at 19 South Main St. shortly before 5 p.m., and, their investigation found that 28 year-old Jessa Sardina had stolen 120 of the pills.  Officers arrested Sardina for petty larceny... and, she arraigned and issued an appearance ticket for city court.

City man faces DWI charge after his car hits house...
A Jamestown man is accused of Felony drunk driving after his car struck a house on the city's southside last week.  Jamestown police were called to the scene shortly before 8 p.m. Tuesday... and, found 57 year-old Carlos Pagan -- still in the driver's seat -- and the vehicle still running.  Officers found that Pagan was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and he was taken into custody.  Police also found that Pagan had been convicted of DWI three separate times in the past ten years.  Pagan's driving privileges were also revoked due to the DWI convictions.  He was charged with Felony Driving While Intoxicated... first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... reckless driving and several other traffic violations.  Pagan was jailed pending arraignment.

North county man arrested following DWI crash...
A Dunkirk man is accused of driving drunk after his speeding car crashed in the town of Pomfret late last week.  Sheriff's deputies were called to the unidentified scene... and, found the crashed vehicle.  Officers identified the driver as 27 year-old Sergio Bautista-Ramirez.  Officers say a brief investigation found that Bautista-Ramirez was intoxicated... and, he was arrested for driving while intoxicated... speeding, and moving from lane unsafely.  He was processed, and issued appearance tickets for Pomfret Town Court.

Westfield Academy student arrested for making alleged bomb threat again school...
A Westfield Academy and Central School District student has been charged by village police with a felony for allegedly makng a bomb threat against the school earlier this month.  Westfield Police say the threat that was reported on Jan. 9, and, caused the school to go into a "shelter-in-place" as a precaution before the district was evacuated.  The investigation by Westfield Police... and, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office found that the bomb threat was written on a bathroom stall in the middle school.  Police say the threat indicated that there was a bomb inside a specific locker, which was found to not be assigned to any student in the district.  A search was performed by a K-9 Unit and the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad.  An isolated search of the building confirmed that the threat was not credible.  The juvenile was arrested Thursday and charged with Felony making a terroristic threat.  The juvenile was issued an appearance ticket for Family Court at a later date.

County Jail inmate who tried to escape from work detail earlier in week now formally charged...
The inmate who escaped from a Chautauqua County Jail work detail in the town of Ellery earlier this week has now been charged in the case.  Sheriff's officers say 44 year-old Ralph Patterson was officially charged with third-degree escape.  Deputies say the charge stems from the incident in which Patterson escaped custody during a work detail this past Monday.  He was caught quickly by officers with the help of several other police agencies.  Patterson was returned to the county jail on the charge.

More on Hochul's budget proposal that includes slight increase in school aid...
Governor Kathy Hochul says her 2024-25 budget proposal is making a new, record investment in New York state's public schools.  Last year... Hochul and the legislature agreed to a just over $34-billion allocation for the state's roughly 700 school districts... and, this year... she's adding another just under one-billion dollars.  She made her comments during Tuesday's presentation of her proposed $233-billion budget plan.  Hochul says the $825-million increase will "cement" an increase to the highest level of education aid funding at $35-billion.  She is also calling for training some 20,000 new teachers in going back to the basics education... namely boosting literacy by using phonics.  She also highlighted three areas of crime she's putting additional money into.  She's calling for $40-million to combat retail theft... and, another $40-million to deal with domestic violence.  There's also $25-million to help investigate hate crimes

City man arrested on active warrants following one-hour standoff...
A Jamestown man sought on multiple warrants was arrested late Wednesday night following a one hour stand-off with police at an address on the city's southside.  Jamestown police say members of their Violent Crime Unit responded to the unidentified location shortly before 11 p.m. to do a warrant check on 36 year-old Lucas Smyczek.  They say Smyczek was also wanted on an active New York State Parole Warrant.  During the investigation... officers spotted him inside the residence... directly violating orders of protection for two people inside the home.  After the stand-off... Smyczek was taken into custody without further incident on two counts of second-degree criminal contempt... along with the active warrants.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Borrello expresses concern over possible loss of state aid for local rural school districts in Hochul's budget plan...
While Governor Hochul's 2024-25 budget proposal includes another increase in school aid... one part of her plan is causing concern for local State Senator George Borrello.  Hochul and the legislature agreed last year... for the first time ever... to fully fund Foundation Aid for districts.  However... Borrello says a provision in the budget may lead some rural districts to lose funding... that's elimination of the "Save Harmless" provision that keeps districts from losing Foundation Aid.  Borrello says his biggest concern is over the continued funding for New York City to deal with the migrant crisis.  The current $1.9-billion allocation would be increased to $2.4-billion with the use of $500-million in reserve funds.  The Sunset Bay Republican adds there is also an "alarming" proposal to close five prisons... which he says will exacerbate the crime crisis. 
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Meanwhile, the Sunset Bay Republican does support initiatives dealing with improving water quality in lakes and waterways, which he says would benefit Chautauqua County.

Kennedy man arrested for alleged child abuse...
A man from Kennedy man now faces accusations of physically abusing a young child late last year at his home on Waterboro Hill Road.  Sheriff's deputies say the child was seriously hurt in the incident... which occured around Thanksgiving.  Sheriff's deputies say they investigated... and have arrested 62 year-old Clifford Hickok in connection with the Nov. 24 incident.  Officers say the child needed immediate medical attention.  Hickok was arrested Tuesday for endangering the welfare of a child... and, issued appearance tickets for Poland Town Court.

Geise named to Business First "Power 250" economic development listing...
The man who heads up many of Chautauqua County's economic development programs and initiatives has been named to the 2024 edition of Buffalo Business First's prestigious “Power 250” listing.  In a printed release... the county's Industrial Development Agency announced that Deputy County Executive for Economic Development Mark Geise, is on the list published in the Jan. 10 edition of the trade paper.  The news staff at Business First makes the decision after three months of research, reporting, and debate.  Geise was first appointed as Deputy County Executive for Economic Development... and, IDA CEO in March of 2018. 

Hochul unveil's $233B, 2024-25 Budget proposal to deal with crime, housing and migrant crisis...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed $233-billion budget for the next fiscal year focuses on three main priorities with a $6-billion increase in spending.  However... Hochul says it does not include an increase in the state's income tax.  The Buffalo-area Democrat presented her 2024-25 budget plan in Albany Tuesday morning.  She proposed continuing the now $1.9-billion to help New York with it's migrant crisis... along with $500,000 more from increased state reserves... which are now just over 15% of the spending.  So far... Hochul says the state has been helping to house and feed 69-thousand migrants and asylum seekers from the southern border.  She also proposed more measures to deal with crime... including the rise in retail crime.  She says $40-million will be going to local police and prosecutors to better deal with that.  Hochul also focused on the need for added mental health services in the state... including $45-million to meet the need for more services in schools.  She also touted funding to help train 20,000 new teachers in "back to basics" education... such as using phonics to help teach literacy across the state. 

Propane leak leads to blaze that destroys several campers, and out-buildings in town of Chautauqua...
A propane gas leak inside a camper led to an early morning blaze that destroyed several campers and out-buildings in the town of Chautauqua.  The Sheriff's Office reports that the Mayville Fire Department was called to 71-27 Beaujean Rd. just after 12:30 Wednesday morning for a reported camper fire.  Several mutual aid companies were also called to the scene.  No injuries were reported.  The county's Fire Investigation Team was called into to look for the cause and origin of the blaze.  The Jamestown Post-Journal says neighbors of the property have complained to the town that the structures have been used as "drug houses."

Inmate at Chautauqua County Jail captured after brief escape from work party...
A Chautauqua County Jail inmate was recaptured Monday morning shortly after he escape from a work detail in the town of Ellery.  Sheriff's deputies say several law enforcement agencies responded to the area when the male inmate escaped in the late morning.  The agencies used coordinated efforts... and, the inmate was quickly located.  Officers say he was taken back into custody.  No one was hurt during the escape nor capture.  Police say the incident remains under investigation and charges are pending.  The Sheriff's Office say more informaiton will be released at a later time.

City man charged with arson after allegedly starting fire inside an apartment stove...
A Jamestown man is accused of setting fire to a pile of wood inside an electric stove to try and heat an apartment that had the utilities shut-off late Monday afternoon.  City police and firefighters were called to the northside address just before 2 p.m., and, found 43 year-old Jared Leroy and a woman who had a stay-away order of protection against him.  However... it was apparent that the female was willing in his company.  Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze... but say the flames melted the stove... and, there was smoke damage to the residence.  Leroy was arrested for third-degree arson... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  No one was hurt in the fire... but the apartment was condemned by the city's Department of Development.

Jamestown man arrested for allegedly pointing rifle at another man...
A city man is accused of pointing a rifle at another man during an argument on Jamestown's westside last Thursday night.  City police were called to the unidentified location shortly before 9 p.m. for a person with a weapon.  Officers say their investigation found that 43 year-old Cody Cogdell had pointed the rifle at a male victim.... and, he was arrested without further incident.  Police charged Cogdell with second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the city jail... arraigned, and later released with an appearance ticket.

Dunkirk hold's annual MLK Luncheon at Clarion Monday...
The annual tradition honoring late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was held Monday in Dunkirk.  More than 140 people turned out for the Dunkirk Juneteenth Committee's MLK Luncheon at the Clarion Hotel.  Committee Chairperson Loretta Torain says the theme for this year's event was one of Dr. King's famous phrases: "The time is always right to do what is right."  It's a theme that has been used before, but Torain says the committee needed to remind those in attendance to do the right thing.  Torain believes the guests in attendance received the message very well.  Several local elected officials were on hand for the event, including new Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz, Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson, Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel, Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone, and New York State Assemblyman Andrew Goodell.
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The traditional Martin Luther King, Junior commemoration and service at Jamestown's Emmanuel Baptist Church that was to be held Sunday afternoon was postponed due to the inclement weather.  The church's Facebook page says it will be rescheduled at a later date. 
 

City man arrested for threatening another man with rifle...
A Jamestown man has been arrested after allegedly pointing a rifle at another man during an argument on the city's westside late last week.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location shortly before 9 p.m. last Thursday for a person with a weapon.  Officers say their investigation found that 43 year-old Cody Cogdell has pointed the gun at a male victim.... and, he was arrested without further incident.  Police charged Cogdlll with second-degree menacing.  He was taken to the city jail... arraigned, and released with an appearance ticket.

Dunkirk man arrested during drug raid in north county city...
A Dunkirk man has been arrested during a drug raid on his apartment following a one month-long investigation into significant drug trafficking from that location.  Sheriff's deputies say Dunkirk Narcotics Investigators, along with those from the Sheriff's Office and Jamestown Police Department executed a search warrant at the lower apartment at 178 West Second St. last Friday afternoon.  Officers say they found 43 year-old Fernando Martinez, Jr. inside the home... and, seized just over 12-grams of fentanyl... 26.15 grams of crack cocaine... nearly 11-grams of methamphetamine, scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics.  Police also found a shotgun and more than $6,000 in cash.  They say Martinez was charged with three counts third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... first-degree criminal contempt... and, tampering with physical evidence.  Martinez was arraigned in Dunkirk City Court... and, sent to the county jail on $10,000 cash bail.  If you have information on drug or other suspicious activity... call the Sheriff's Department Tip line at either 800-344-8702 or 716-664-2420... or the Jamestown Police Department Tip line at 716-483-8477.

Jamestown woman arrested for DWI for going wrong way on one-way street...
A city woman has been arrested on multiple Felony drunk driving charges after she was allegedly seeing driving on the shoulder of the road on North Main Street.  Jamestown police say they pulled over a car during a traffic stop shortly after Midnight Saturday because the car was not maintaining it's lane.  Officers say the driver... identified as 50 year-old Robin Smith... failed standardized field sobriety testing.  Smith was taken into custody for Felony DWI... Felony Aggravated DWI... driving with a blood alcohol content of more than point-18 percent.... and, for driving when her license had been revoked for a DWI conviction over the past 10 years.  She was also charged with failure to maintain lane, and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle.  Smith was jailed pending arraignment.

Wendel speaks more about Hochul's State of the State Address...
Local government and school leaders will be paying attention to New York Governor Kathy Hochul's 2023-24 budget presentation tomorrow from Albany.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is among them... and, while he liked many of the initiatives in Hochul's State of the State message... he wants to see how they're addressed in her budget.  The governor will present the budget during an address in Albany... and, Wendel is looking to see how she addresses concerns like retail theft... agriculture... and, mental health.  He adds he also is concerned about the move from holding local elections from odd to even-years.  Wendel says it's a "home rule" issue that... according to the state constitution... rests with the county governments.  Gov. Hochul's 2023-24 spending plan totaled about $229-billion... which was a record.  However... during her State of the State Address... she noted "we can't spend what we don't have." 

NYSSBA sounds off on education in State of the State Address...
The organization that represents school board's across New York state say they are "optimistic" that that districts will receive the aid they need in the new state budget.  Those are the feelings of New York State School Boards Association Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Dave Albert.  Albert says... with districts receiving full Foundaton Aid the past year... they're looking forward to the governor's budget message on Tuesday.  Albert says... with the mental health of students a significant concern... they're hoping to get the resources they need.  He says the U.S. Surgeon General's report on that found that 40% of students were dealing with some kind of mental health issue... including depression, and low self-esteem.  In her State of the State Address... Governor Kathy Hochul said that any district that felt they need a "school-based" mental health clinic should be able to get one.  However... Albert says finding counselors and social workers has been a challenge in some cases. 

City police arrest wrong way driver for DWI... 
A Jamestown woman faces multiple drunk driving related charges after she was spotted going the wrong way on a one-way street on the city's eastside.  City police were patrolling in the area of East Sixth and Spring Streets shortly before 2 p.m. last Thurday when they saw the car... driven by 61 year-old Kelly Hodges... going the wrong way.  Officers pulled her over near Prendergast Avenue... and, found that Hodges was under the influence of alcohol.  She was taken into custody... and, taken to the city jail... where she was found to have a blood alcohol content higher than point-18-percent.  Hodges was charged with DWI, Aggravated DWI... and, multiple vehicle and traffic violations.  She was processed and issued appearance tickets for city court.

Multiple weather warnings and watches remain in effect through early Sunday...
It's going to be a "busy weather weekend" in Western New York... and, Chautauqua County.  However... the worst of the weather so far has stayed mainly to the north of Jamestown.  So far on Saturday... temperatures have been very cold... but there's only been a half-inch to an inch of snow generally.  A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday... and a High Wind Warning is in effect until 4 a.m. Sunday.  Forecaster Kirk Apfel with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says... once we get past late morning Sunday, our chances of lake effect snow diminish greatly.  By Sunday... our highs will only be in the upper teens to about 20 degrees... and, the coming week will be cold as well.  The highs on Monday through Wednesday are only expected to be in the mid to upper-teens.

City man sentenced to 10 years in prison for fatal shooting during feud between rival groups... 
The Jamestown man recently convicted of shooting and killing another man in broad daylight on the city's northside during a feud between two rival groups will spend the next 10 years in state prison.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says Kevin Roldan-Pantojas received the sentence Friday from County Judge David Foley after being convicted of first-degree manslaughter in the shooting death of Jesus Batista-Perez on Aug. 19, 2022.  Schmidt says "the conviction and sentence is not a cause for celebration."  He adds that more than 20 gunshots from two separate groups were fired in a residential neighborhood on Prendergast Avenue... a few feet from where children played and families socialized outside their homes.  Schmidt says it was "a miracle" that no one else was hurt.  He says Jamestown Police detectives responded immediately and, with assistance from the Chautauqua County Forensic Investigation Team, processed a crime scene which spanned hundreds of public roadway feet and encompassed two separate shooting events."  He says city police spent months "developing and arranging for the testing of evidence, identifying the shooters and reconstructing the order of events; their work and dedication was impeccable and exceptional."

Four arrested during drug raid on Jamestown's northside...
Four people have been arrested following a drug raid on Jamestown's northside for allegedly trafficking crack-cocaine... cocaine... and, Fentanyl.  City police say members of the JPD Metro Drug Task Force... and, Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant on the lower apartment at 618 Spring St. just after 9 a.m. Wednesday with the help of the JPD SWAT Team.  Police arrested 47 year-old Wilfredo Castrillo... 24 year-old David Santiago, Jr., and 26 year-old Morgan Ryder inside the residence... as well as 53 year-old Charles Cummins... who was found in the backyard.  Detectives say they found 5-grams of crack cocaine... a small amount of fentanyl... and, power cocaine... as well as scales and a small amount of cash.  Police say Castrillo, Ryder, and Santiago were each charged with third... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  They add that Santiago also faces a second count of seventh-degree criminal possession... since a small amount of cocaine was found in his possession.  Cummins was also charged with seventh-degree drug possession.  Anyone with information about drug or other criminal activity is asked to call the Jamestown Police Tip Line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  For the Sheriff's Office Tip line call 800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

Warrant Check leads to drug arrest on city's eastside...
A Jamestown man faces drug-related charges following a warrant check on the city's eastside that found the man in possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl.  Jamestown police say they conducted the warrant check shortly before 4 p.m. Thursday... and, found 28 year-old Anthony Spitalie inside the residence.  Officers took Spitale into custody on the warrant... and, also located quantities of the two drugs... and paraphernalia... in his possession.  He was charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... in addition to the bench warrant.  Spitalie was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Mayville arrested for attempted assault...
A Mayville man has been arrested for allegedly trying to assault another person at an unidentified location in the village.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene shortly before 10 p.m. Wednesday to check on a person's well-being.  Deputies spoke with the suspect... 38 year-old Brian Little... and further investigation revealed a physical altercation between Little and the victim.  He was arrested for third-degree attempted assault... and taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment.

Dunkirk man arrested for multiple car break-ins in towns of Portland and Pomfre last month...        
Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department investigators have arrested a Dunkirk man for allegedly trespassing... and, breaking into several vehicles in the north county recently.  Sheriff's officers say the break-ins occured in the towns of Pomfret and Portland between Dec. 28, and Dec. 30.  Deputies investigated... and, found that 56 year-old Gary Lang was responsible for the crime spree.  Officers arrested Lang this morning on two counts of trespassing... two counts of petty larceny... and, second-degree burglary.  The Sheriff's Office also thanked the public for their help in the investigation.  Multiple members of the public were able to provide video surveillance footage and and information which lead to a successful conclusion to this investigation.

County Humane Society announces closing of 2nd Chances Thrift Store...
The inability to fully-recover from the COVID Pandemic has led the Chautauqua County Humane Society to close it's Second-Chances Thrift Store in the coming weeks.  That from Humane Society Executive Director Kellie Roberts... who says it was a difficult decision for their board.  However... she says they've been reviewing their situation at the Fairmount Plaza location in West Ellicott for about the past two years... and the decision's been made to close the store.  Roberts says they were ready to make some changes to boost the operation right before the Pandemic shut-down occured in March of 2020... and, they "just haven't been able to recover "financially from that."  She says no firm closing date has been determined... but, she says it will likely be sometime in the next two to three weeks.  She says all Second Chances operations will be shut-down by the end of February.  Roberts adds that the Humane Society also needs to consolidate to meet New York's new Shelter Standards Act that's been in place for about a year now.

Wendel praises first responders on efforts during Tuesday Wind Storm...
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is praising local first responders and utility crews for their response to Tuesday's wind storm.  Wendel says he believes the county "dodged a bullet" in terms of severe damage.  At mid-day Wednesday... Wendel said there were still as many as two-thousand electric customers without power... mainly in the north county.  He urges people to not go near downed power lines because you can't be sure whether it may still be "live" or not.  He adds that if you come across them, call the local power company... or 911.  At the height of the storm... county officials reported about 12,000 customers of either National Grid and New York State Gas and Electric were without power.  Wendel says there was some significant damage to one county building.  He says that was a three-sided salt storage shed in the town of Sheridan which ended up losing one side.  Wendel says... if you come across any power lines on the road... or on the ground... do not approach them... call the local power company... or 911.

County, Fredonia and Pomfet open warming center at SUNY Fredonia...
With parts of the north county area still without power... Chautauqua County announced the opening of a warming center at the SUNY College at Fredonia Thursday.  The village and town of Pomfret are opening the center at the Williams Center at 301 Old Main Drive in Fredonia from Noon to 9 p.m.  Spokesman Justin Gould says additional days and hours will be broadcast on a needed basis.

Man accused of shooting and killing man during incident in Sinclairville pleads guilty...
The teenaged suspect in the July 2022 shooting death of a man in the village of Sinclairville has pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in the case.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt has announced that the defendant... who was under the age of 18 at the time of the incident.... entered the plea just before jury selection was to begin for his trial.  Schmidt says Joseph Misciagno was shot once in the back during a daytime street fight at the corner of Reed and Park Streets... just outside a baseball field where little leaguers and their families were present.  The defendant now faces up to 25 years in prison when he is sentenced on Mar. 1. Schmidt says there was no plea agreement involved... adding "one way or the other, whether by plea or conviction after trial, it was our intention to hold this individual responsible for the crime he committed."

City man arrested for calling in false stabbing report...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly reporting that he had been stabbed Wednesday night on North Main Street... but, it never occured.  City police were called to the Robo North store just after 9 p.m., and, made contact with the reported victim, 26 year-old Schuyler Coleman.  Officers say Coleman told them that he had been stabbed in the abdomen.  However... it was soon found that no stabbing had actually occurred... and, Coleman had no marks or stab wounds on his body.  He was arrested for third-degree falsely reporting an incident... and, was jailed pending arraignment.

New JHS Principal approved by Jamestown School Board...
An assistant principal at Jamestown High School will become the school's new principal... beginning next Tuesday.  The city School Board Tuesday night approved the appointment of Allyson Smith as the new JHS Principal... replacing Dana Williams... who will be phasing out of the position through the second-semester.  School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker says... in addition to her "exemplary services to JHS... she did very well during the interviews..." and, has made many good connections at the school.  Dr. Whitaker says Smith "really stood out throughout the process with each of our stakeholders groups.  Her understanding of the challenges and strengths of Jamestown High School is quite deep and this understanding as well as the relationships that she has forged, will serve our high school staff and students well." Prior to joining the staff at JHS in 2019... Whitaker says Smith served for seven years as a special education teacher at Persell Middle School. 

JHS goes back to roots with new nickname "Red & Green..." 
Jamestown High School's first known nickname will again be the JHS nickname going forward after a committee received feedback from students... and, the community.  The School Board last night officially signed off on the recommendation of the JHS Nickname Committee... which was "Red & Green."  Those taking part also considered the name "Catamounts" which fit in with the "big cat" logo the school had adopted.  The move was necessitated after the state Education Department mandated that the school eliminate any Native American imagery or connotations.  "Red & Green" are the school's long-time colors... and, was the school nickname from 1905 to 1935.  JHS Athletic Director Ben Drake says -- "following feedback forms and discussions with students and members of the community, the committee made the recommendation to continue a return to our roots."  The school district began the process of selecting a new name last Spring.  The district will begin phasing in the new nickname this coming Spring.

County's director of Emergency Services reports dozens of fire and rescue calls during wind storm...
The most significant damage has been mainly seen along the Lake Erie Shoreline from Tuesday's storm system that brought wind gusts of about 70 mph to the region.  One gust of 74 was reported at the Dunkirk Airport.  During a mid-afternoon briefing yesterday... Chautauqua County's Director of Emergency Services and Fire Coordinator Noel Guttman said local fire departments already had between 60 and 70 calls for damage and other issues by mid-afternoon... with four of those being tractor-trailers being blown onto their sides by the high winds.  Guttman says of the four tractor-trailers that overturned due to the wind... two were on the State Thruway... and, the other two were vehicles on Routes 5 and 20.  No injuries were reported.  As of mid-afternoon... Guttman said some 12,000 local customers of National Grid or New York State Gas and Electric were without power across the county.  The National Weather Service has reported some "extensive property damage" along the Lake Erie shoreline.  Guttman says they've seen a little bit of that on social media. 

Hochul touches on housing, crime, education, and AI research in State of State...
New York Governor Kathy Hochul hit on a number of themes she's laid out over the past week in her 2024 State of the State Address Tuesday... focusing on housing, crime and education policies.  Hochul also talked a lot about health care... including mental health care.  She also repeated her call for paid medical leave during pregnancy.  However... she touted a $6-billion investment from the federal government to boost overall health care through-out the state.  As for mental health... Hochul talked about boosting services for children coming out of the pandemic, and burdened by social media stigmas.  She says another major focus will remain to bring more affordable housing on line in the state... something that's been a tough sell with the legislature.  However... she says there are some moves she can make through executive action... by developing housing in places the state does have control, including SUNY properties.  Hochul is also calling for an overhaul of literacy education... and, there was also an initiative to combat retail theft.... a problem seen statewide... but especially in New York City.  

Borrello left "disappointed" by governor's State of State Address...
Local State Senator George Borrello says anyone hoping for Governor Hochul's message to be a "bold plan" for turning around the state's affordability and public safety crises has been left "disappointed" by the address.  In a printed statement... Borrello says -- "the worst-in-the-nation outmigration of our residents is a problem that threatens our future.  It requires more than new affordable housing units, as the governor suggests."  The Sunset Bay Republican adds that the state's combined state and local tax rates are the highest in the nation... and says several polls have found that the tax burden is the primary reason people are leaving New York.  He says he heard no plans to tackle that issue.  While Hochul praised a recent decrease in gun violence... Borrello says "the truth is that crime rates are still significantly higher now than they were before the reckless bail changes took effect."  He does say that proposals to combat retail theft, domestic violence and hate crimes are a step forward... but, says the "leftists in the legislature" will fight these proposals. 

Two council committees approve contracts, and funding for new ramp security measures...
Two Jamestown City Council committees have approved moving ahead with about a quarter-of-a-million dollar project to beef up security at the city's two parking ramps.  The Finance and Public Works Committees both approved one measure at Monday night's meetings to purchase security cameras for $70,770 from SHI International in New Jersey.  Finance Committee Chairman Brent Sheldon says the city is hoping to hear soon about a grant to cover the cost.  Sheldon says they also approved a resolution to hire a New York City-area firm to install the new cameras... and, lighting upgrades to the Cherry Street... and Spring Street facilities.  The installation will be handled for just under $179,000 by Nest Wireless Global of Flushing, NY.  Last year... several employees of the nearby South County Office building told city lawmakers that they were the victims of vandalism to their vehicles... and were being harassed by people who were in the ramps that had no business being there. 
 

Co. Executive Wendel to be at Hochul's State of the State Address...
Among those planning to be in attendance for Gov. Kathy Hochul's State of the State Address Tuesday afternoon is Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel.  Wendel says he's looking forward to the address... which will outline Hochul's goals for 2024.  Wendel says he's been told there will be some good news for the county in that address.  Wendel says it's nice to see the county mentioned during the address... and, he's hopeful on a couple of fronts.  First... he's hoping to see Hochul sign-off on the $70-million for a new Brook's Hospital in the north county.  Second is funding to help Chautauqua Lake.  He adds, though, that "New York is New York..." and they're looking at having to pay $12-million to $16-million dollars in unfunded mandates being put on the county.  However... with the county in pretty good financial shape right now... Wendel says there are "no major complaints" at this point.  The Lakewood Republican adds that he is concerned about at least one new law that's being proposed.  He says that concerns the In-REM Foreclosure law.  Also in attendance will be local State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Andy Goodell. 

Borrello says new State Legislative Session expeted to be a "tumultuous one..."
The New York state legislature's 2024 session is officially underway... and, Senator George Borrello is expecting the session in Albany to be a "tumultuous" one, as legislators enter an election year.  The Sunset Bay Republican also says legislators need to use this year's session to address a projected budget deficit of more than $4-billion... a lot of which has been caused by taxpayers leaving New York state due to the taxes.  Borrello also spoke about what issues he would like to see addressed.  Among them -- he says -- is the state's Unemployment Insurance Fund... which he says is $8-billion in debt to the federal government because of what he calls "mismanagement" by the State Labor Department.  Borrello adds that he hopes lawmakers can "apply common sense" to issues like affordability, crime, and the migrant crisis.

Jamestown man arrested for being in possession of metal knuckles...
A city man is accused of being in possession of a set of metal knuckles... which are outlawed in New York state... during a street check in the downtown area early last weekend.  Jamestown police say a patrol spotted 26 year-old Darius Franklin shortly after 2 a.m. Saturday in the area of North Main and East Third Streets.  Officers say they knew there was a Chautauqua County Court warrant for Franklin's arrest.  He was stopped... and, arrested.  During a subsequent search... police found him with the metal knuckles... and, he was taken to the city jail on one count of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... as well as the warrant.  Franklin was held pending arraignment.

City man arrested for being drunk, and breaking items during domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly being drunk and throwing items... breaking many of them... at a home on the city's westside early Saturday morning.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location just after 2 a.m., and, found that 22 year-old Chase Pellerino had returned home in an intoxicated condition.. and, began throwing items all over the house.  After that he got into a physical domestic with a woman there.  Pellerino was arrested for third-degree criminal mischief... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment in City Court.

Dunkirk man found guilty of federal sex trafficking...
A Mayville man has been convicted by a federal jury of the sex trafficking of a minor in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.  U.S. Attorney Trini Ross says that 49 year-old William Quinones was found guilty last Friday of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and sex trafficking of a minor.  Ross says prosecutors found that in July of 2021... the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office got a complaint that Quinones had been sexually abusing two children the previous eight-years.  Further investigation found a total of four minor victims.  During interviews with investigators... the victims stated that Quinones raped or attempted to rape and sexually abused them.  Quinones threatened them with violence or hurt their families if they told what he was doing.  Quinones had regular sexual contact with one minor victim, referred to in the indictment, beginning when she was 8 years old, as often as three to four times a week.  That victim also said that Quinones started paying her in exchange for sexual contact, beginning when she was 13 years old until age 16.  The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years to life in prison.  Quinones is to be sentenced next June.

Two city residents arrested on criminal contempt charges...
Two Jamestown residents were arrested early last weekend after police found they were found to have orders of protection against the other during a domestic incident.  City police were on a "targeted domestic violence detail" just before 11:30 a.m. Saturday when they responded to a northside address.  When they arrived... they made contact with 47 year-old Rudy Ryen and... and, 48 year-old Christina Dorman... each of whom had an active order of protection to stay away from the other.  Both were arrested without incident... and taken to the city jail.  Ryen was charged with first-degree criminal contempt due to a previous criminal contempt conviction... and, Dorman was charged with second-degree criminal contempt.

Burham sentenced to 25-50 years in prison in Warren Co., Pa, on kidnap and escape charges...
The man accused of shooting and killing a Jamestown woman last May... and convicted of kidnapping and escape in Warren County, Pennsylvania... will spend at least 25 years in a Pennsylvania prison.  The Warren County District Attorney's office this afternoon confirmed that 35 year-old Michael Burham was given 25 years, 2-months... to 50 years, four-months in State Prison.  After the alleged murder of Kala Hodgkin in Jamestown last May 11th... Burham is accused of kidnapping a Sheffield couple and forcing them to accompany him in their car to South Carolina.  He was later captured there.  However... he later escaped from the Warren County Jail... which led to a more than one-week manhunt.  Once recaptured... Burham was held in the prison in Erie, Pennsylvania... where he's been returned until he is transferred to a State Prison there.  Charges here in Chautauqua County have been deferred until the Pennsylvania court case was resolved.

Schumer announces start of "out-of-pocket cap" on Part D Medicare costs...
For the first-time ever... seniors in New York State on Medicare have a cap on their total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.  That from U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer... who says more than 3-million New York seniors are eligible for the cap... which has been set at $3,300 a year in Medicare Part-D.  Schumer says the cap was part of the federal Inflation Reduction Act... which lawmakers passed in 2022... and, was signed by President Joe Biden in August of that year.  The New York Democrat says this new drug cost "capping" will work in with other major healthcare provisions he secured... including making vaccines free for seniors... and, a $35 insulin cap for those on Medicare, to help make healthcare more affordable for all seniors.  Schumer says this should be a "major shot in the arm" for New York's seniors... because many of them spend far more than $3,000 a year.  Schumer adds that the cap will go even lower the following year in 2025 to a $2,000, out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs. 

Ecklund finishes first week on job as Jamestown mayor...
It's been a busy first week on the job for new Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund.  The Republican was sworn into office on New Year's Day... and is only the second woman in the city's history to hold that office.  Ecklund says... admittedly... she has a lot to learn.  However... she says she's ready for the challenge.  Ecklund plans on meeting with several managers and employees this week to make sure everyone is on the same page.  She already has most of her people in place for the new term... including Comptroller Ericka Thomas... who worked with her at eSolutions-Bush Industries for more than three decades.  City Clerk-Treasurer Jennifer Williams was also sworn-in for a new term.  Ecklund says the current Acting Public Works Director Mark Roetzer will also be staying on.  Among the holdovers from former Mayor Eddie Sundquist's administration are Corporation Councel Eliot Raimando... and, Department of Development Director Crystal Surdyk.

As new legislature majority leader, Wilfong hopes to improve communications with city government...
The Chautauqua County Legislature's new majority leader says improved communications between the city of Jamestown, and the county, will be a high priority in this year.  Jamestown Republican Dave Wilfong says that communication was, unfortunately, not available the past four years.  Wilfong says... prior to that... the city and the city council would welcome local legislators at least quarterly to discuss matters impacting both governments.  He says that was the case for the Teresi administration... but, it ended after that.  Wilfong says the past administration would have been given a heads-up on a couple of matters if they had met.  Those involved changes in the tipping fees at the county landfill, and workers compensation.  Wilfong spoke candidly about the impact that lack of communication may have had on both Jamestown and Dunkirk.  Both Mayor Sundquist and Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas sent a letter to the county saying they were surprised about the worker's comp matter. 

County PEG awards 14 grants to various economic development projects...
The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth has announced the 14 recipients of its 2024 round of grant funding, used to support economic development projects that focus on revitalization and long-term strategic investment.  Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, Mark Geise says those 14 different projects will receive $242,000, towards nearly $1.9-million in total project costs.  Geise says projects receiving funding come from across the county... including Bemus Point, Dunkirk, Findley Lake, Jamestown, and Lakewood.  The applicant receiving the largest amount funding was the village of Lakewood, which was awarded $30,000 for the Hartley Park Waterfront Revitalization and, Improvement Project.  Four other projects each received $25,000 including: the Chautauqua County Fair Conceptual Planning and Enhancement Project... Dream It Do It Advance Manufacturing Program... and, the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts’ Theater Seats and Auditorium Improvement project.

Erie, Pa. man arrested on drug and weapons charges in Jamestown...
A call for a suspicious situation on Jamestown's southside early Wednesday morning led to the arrest of an Erie, Pennsylvania man for having a loaded handgun and drugs in his possession.  City police say officers responded to the area of Prospect St. and Newland Ave. shortly before 5 a.m. on a report of the vehicle in that area.  Police made contact with a man driving the vehicle... identified as 41 year-old John Cuneo IV.  Their investigation found that Cuneo had the handgun... and, a quantity of Fentanyl in his possesion.  He was arrested without incident for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  

Little in the way of new snow predicted for Jamestown-area after near record warm December...
It's been one of the warmest, and least snowiest starts to Winter in Western New York ever... and, El nino is to blame.  That from Forecaster Jason Alumbaugh with the National Weather Service in Buffalo... who says we're seeing some snow activity to our north and east... but, very little here over the next day or two.  Alumbaugh talked about that with our Dennis Webster Wednesday morning... noting that we've seen only short bursts -- one to two-days -- of cold air that brings just a small amount of snow.  So far this Winter... Alumbaugh says they've only recorded about 8-inches of snow at their headquarters at the Buffalo-Niagara Airport.  He says December was unusually warm -- adding it was the second warmest on record.  However... with Lake Erie still warm at 43-degrees... Alumbaugh says the potential is still there for some significant lake effect snow once cold artic air finally sets up over the lakes.

News of transcript of Rushdie's book leads to postponement of Matar trail...
Author Salman Rushdie's plans to publish a book about the 2022 attempt on his life at Chautauqua Institution has delayed the start of the trial of his alleged attacker.  County Court Judge David Foley Wednesday morning granted a defense motion to postpone the trial for 26-year-old Hadi Matar... which was to begin next Monday.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt was disappointed by the decision... noting that he and his case were ready to start jury selection next week.  Schmidt says it may be May before jury selection begins.  Public Defender Ned Barone had made the request to Judge Foley Wednesday morning after the book situation arose Tuesday.  Barone said -- in an A--P article that "It's not just the book.  Every little note Rushdie wrote down, I get, I'm entitled to.  Every discussion, every recording, anything he did in regard to this book.”  However... Schmidt said Rushdie's representatives had declined the prosecutor's request for a copy of the manuscript, citing intellectual property rights.  He downplayed the book's relevance at the upcoming trial, given that the attack was witnessed by a large, live audience and Rushdie himself could testify. 

Gowanda woman arrested for allegedly stealing credit card, and other items from man's wallet...
A woman from Conewango Valley is accused of stealing a wallet from a 76 year-old man at the Gowanda Rehab Center... and, using a credit card belonging to the victim.  State Police in Collins say troopers were called to the location in the village of Gowanda on Tuesday, Dec. 26 on a report of the wallet... and, it's contents being taken from the man.  Police found the credit card had been used at a local pizzeria.  Troopers say they worked with the business... and, the Rehab Center to identify the suspect as 36 year-old Shauna Skinner.  Skinner was arrested for fourth-degree grand larceny -- credit card... and, second-degree criminal impersonation.  She was issued an appearance ticket for Persia Town Court for a later date.

Ferguson takes oath of office as new Fredonia mayor...
The village of Fredonia's new mayor is charging the community to continue to "fan the flames of community pride..." as well as faith in the village's government.  Those were the words of Mike Ferguson during his inaugural address on Monday.  Ferguson, who took his oath of office at Village Hall, says he is challenging members of the community for a "call to service" to help give the village the direction on where they want them to take.  In his address, Ferguson said he will ask for New York State's help in three main areas during the New York Conference of Mayors convention in February.  He says the first is freeing up the money for a new hospital... help in getting clean and safe water to village residents... and, helping to save the SUNY College at Fredonia.  Other priorities Ferguson spoke about in his address included downtown development, the refurbishing of the White Inn, and the WCA Home.

City man arrested after breaking window during domestic incident...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly breaking a window inside a southside home during a domestic dispute early Wednesday evening.  City police were called to the unidentified location just before 6 p.m., and on arrival, found that 25 year-old Nairobi Bautista had broken the window.  Bautista was arrested for fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraingment.

County urges applications for Youth Team Sports grant program...
Chautauqua County is looking to increase the positive impact that sports and athletics have on young people by taking part in a newly-created youth team sports grant program.  The county's Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services is now accepting applications for the new grant stream created in the 2024 state budget... which appropriated additional funding to support the operations of Youth Team Sports programs for underserved youth under the age of 18.  County officials say the funding was made available through a "legislative addition..." and is not guaranteed from one year to the next.  For this funding opportunity... a “team sport” is defined as an organized physical activity in which groups of two or more individuals are in competition with two or more opposing individuals.  The application period runs until Jan. 26, and for a request for proposal outline, go on-line to chqgov.com/humansocial-services/legal-services-rfp.... you can also call the county Youth Bureau at 716-753-4117.

Postponement granted in start of trial for Rushdie assailant...
Author Salman Rushdie's plans to publish a book about a 2022 attempt on his life has delayed the start of the trial of his alleged attacker.  We have learned that Chautauqua County Court Judge David Foley has granted a defense request that the trial for 26-year-old Hadi Matar... which was to begin next Monday... be delayed.  No date has been set as yet.  The A-P reported Tuesday that Matar's attorney, Public Defender Ned Barone, was considering a request to Judge Foley.  Barone says -- quote "“It's not just the book.  Every little note Rushdie wrote down, I get, I'm entitled to.  Every discussion, every recording, anything he did in regard to this book.”  However... District Attorney Jason Schmidt said Rushdie's representatives had declined the prosecutor's request for a copy of the manuscript, citing intellectual property rights.  Schmidt downplayed the book's relevance at the upcoming trial, given that the attack was witnessed by a large, live audience and Rushdie himself could testify. 

Little or no snow in December or January?  Blame el nino, says forecaster...
It's been one of the warmest, and least snowiest starts to Winter in Western New York ever... and, el nino is to blame.  That from Forecaster Jason Alumbaugh with the National Weather Service in Buffalo... who says we're seeing some snow activity to our north and east... but, very little here over the next day or two.  Alumbaugh talked about that with our Dennis Webster Wednesday morning... noting there have only been short bursts of cold air, with little snow so far.  So far this Winter... Alumbaugh says they've only recorded about 8-inches of snow at their headquarters at the Buffalo-Niagara Airport.  He says December was unusually warm.  In fact... Alumbaugh says December of 2023 was the second-warmest on record.  However... with Lake Erie still warm at 43-degrees... the potential is still there for some significant lake effect snow once cold artic air finally sets up over the lakes.

Pair arrested in Jamestown for stolen car, and others...
An investigation into a stolen vehicle in Cattaraugus County has led to the arrests of two people in Jamestown on various charges.  City police say they located the vehicle on Hopkins Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. Monday... and, saw a man fleeing from the driver's seat.  A female passenger inside the vehicle... identified as 43-year-old Julie Capizzi of Frewsburg... was taken into custody without incident.  The male driver, who was found a short distance away, tried to give police a false name... but, was later identified as 47 year-old David Vanguilder of Jamestown... and, he was also taken into custody.  Capizzi was later found in possession of suboxone strips without a prescription, and a quantity of fentanyl.  She was charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Vanguilder was already sought by JPD on outstanding felony arrest warrants... and, was also charged with false personation... fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, second-degree criminal possession of a forged Instrument.  He was arraigned, and turned over to the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office on warrants they had.  Vanguilder is also wanted on other charges elsewhere.

Chagnon again elected as chairment of Chautauqua County Legislature...
The Bemus Point-area Republican who has led the Chautauqua County Legislature in recent years has been again elected to that position for the coming year.  During their re-organizational meeting in Mayville Tuesday afternoon... lawmakers reelected Pierre Chagnon to head up the panel.  In his very brief address... Chagnon said he was again honored to have the confidence of both majority Republicans, and minority Democrats.  He says he will again adhere  to "high moral standards, and do my very best to demonstrate servant leadership."  2024 will also be a year of change on the legislature... with several new members being elected... some of them replacing people who retired.

Wilfong to be new Majority Leader on legislature...
A Jamestown Republican has been named as the county legislature's new Majority Leader for 2024.  Multi-term lawmaker Dave Wilfong will serve in the position this year after being formally named during yesterday's legislature reorganizational meeting in Mayville.  Wilfong replaces Tom Harmon... who will be a committee chairman this year.  Wilfong was on hand for Monday afternoon's inauguration of fellow Republican Kim Ecklund as the city's new mayor.  Wilfong believes being able to work with both sides of the political aisle was a big reason for his appointment.  Ellicott Republican Lisa Vanstrom will be Assistant Majority Leader in 2024.  Minority Democrats have reappointed Dunkirk's Robert Bankowski to again be Minority Leader... and Fredonia's Susan Parker as Assistant Minority Leader. 

Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign comes up just short in 2023...
The Salvation Army of Jamestown came up about $19,000 short of their goal in this year's Red Kettle Campaign.  However... leaders have faith they will be able to still meet the needs of the local community in the coming year.  That from Major Kim Merchant... who says including a $6,000 match from the national organization... they will have raised $105,700.  While that's short of their 2023 goal of $125,000... they are pleased with the response, because a lot of people are struggling right now.  Merchant noted during the campaign that they had fewer days to raise the money... and, that would also make it a challenge.  However... she says if someone is so inclined, they can still make a cash contribution to their programming.  Checks can be made out to The Salvation Army, 83 South Main St., Jamestown, New York 14701.  

Ecklund sworn-in as second woman mayor of Jamestown, and first female GOP member to take the office...
The city of Jamestown has it's first-ever, Republican woman mayor in it's history... as former Councilwoman Kim Ecklund was sworn-in Monday afternoon at City Hall.  During brief remarks following the swearing in... Ecklund acknowledged that fact... and, thanked the many family and friends who packed council chambers for their help and support during the campaign, and her transition.  She quoted Mother Theresa in saying that "together, we can do great things."  Ecklund got emotional when talking about her decision to run... and, recalled the fact that her grandfather Alpine "Piney" Johnson, Sr., ran for mayor in 1965, but, was defeated in a primary.  She hoped that her example would be an inspiration to others to follow the same path.  Soon after... Ecklund lightened the mood when talking about her family's support... in particular her husband, Keith.  She says he "signed me up for this long before I ever did."  She is the second woman to ever serve in the position.  The late Carolyn Seymour was the first woman ever elected.  The Democrat served from 1992-93.
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In addition to Ecklund... two members of her administration were also sworn-in Monday afternoon.  They were new Comptroller Ericka Thomas... who worked with Ecklund in finance for better than three decades at eSolutions-Bush Industries.  City Clerk Jennifer Williams was also sworn-in for another term in that position.

Dolce again elected to be City Council President...
City Council President Tony Dolce will again serve in that capacity the next two years after being re-elected unanimously by fellow panel members.  The Second-Ward Republican has led the GOP majority panel the past four years... and has been the longest-ever serving member of council.  During his remarks... Dolce noted that lawmakers will have to keep a close eye on finances as the city's $28-million American Rescue Plan award runs out... and, they still have needed capital improvements to be made at city facilities.  The second focus was on housing... and third was public safety... focusing on gun violence, and the drug epidemic.  In the new year... First-Ward Councilman Brent Sheldon will chair the Finance Committee... while second-term Fifth-Ward Councilman Bill Reynolds will chair the Housing Committee.  In addition... returning At-Large Republican Jeff Russell will now serve as Public Safety Committee chairman... and, another At-Large Republican, Randy Daversa, will again serve as Public Works chairman.

Cattaraugus County man faces numerous charges following vehicle pursuit...
An Ellicottville man faces several charges after allegedly leading police on a high-speed car chase early this morning that went from Cattaraugus County into Pennsylvania.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say they responded to a report of a speeding vehicle just before 1:30 a.m. when a car was seen coming into the county.  Deputies took up the chase... and, the driver -- identified as 64 year-old Patrick Fuhr  -- nearly struck a deputy with his vehicle as the officer was deploying spike strips.  Fuhr faces speeding... unlawfully fleeing police in a motor vehicle... and several other charges.  He was jailed without bail pending a future court appearance.

City man arrested on domestic violence and animal abuse charges...
A Jamestown man has been arrested following an alleged domestic violence incident New Year's morning... as well as abusing animals.  City police were called to a westside address about 9:20 a.m. Monday... and, before they arrived, officers were told that one of the subjects -- 25 year-old Armando Colon -- had active domestic charges stemming from an earlier incident.  When police checked the home... Colon was found in the basement hiding under a stack of boxes.  He was taken into custody... and taken to the city jail on charges of second-degree assault... third-degree criminal mischief... as well as overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals.  Colon was jailed pending arraignment.

City man charged with DWAI after being found slumped over steering wheel last Friday...
A Jamestown man found slumped over the steering wheel of his car has been arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs.  City police say members of their Violence Interdiction... and, DWI Units were patrolled in the area of Charles Street shortly before 2 a.m. last Friday... and spotted the driver, 31 year-old Joshua Spagnualo, unresponsive behind the wheel.  Police say a search of the vehicle was conducted... and, Spagnualo was found to be in possession of a quantity of Fentanyl.  He was taken to the city jail and released with appearance tickets on charges of driving while ability impaired by drugs... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

NYS Minimum Wage increases on New Year's Day...
The new year brings a new, higher minimum wage in New York state... with all workers to now make at least 15-dollars an hour.  In the first of a series of annual increases slated for the Empire State... the minimum wage increased to $16 in New York City and some of its suburbs, up from $15. In the rest of the state, the new minimum wage is $15, up from $14.20.  The state's minimum wage is expected to increase every year until it reaches $17 in New York City and its suburbs, and $16 in the rest of the state by 2026. Future hikes will be tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, a measurement of inflation.