Jamestown man arrested after allegedly threatening police with a knife...
A city man has been arrested after allegedly threatening police officers with a knife... and, then throwing the knife at one of the officers during an incident on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to a report of a suspicious person in the area shortly after 4 p.m. yesterday.  Officers say they located 42 year-old Brandon Jimerson at a condemned building in the area.  As they approached... police say Jimmerson began yelling and displayed the knife. Officers say he began waving the knife and threatened to kill the responding officer... and, other officers who had responded.  Another officer tried to intervene, and Jimerson waved the knife at that officer, as well.  He then allegedly threw the knife at one of the officers, but, the officer was able to avoid being hit.  Jimerson was eventually taken into custody on two counts of Felony menacing a police officer... second-degree attempted assault... third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, trespassing.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

City man arrested for stealing cellphone during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly stealing a cellphone from another person during a domestic incident on the city's northside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the location shortly before 4 a.m. Thursday... and, made contact with the suspect -- 36 year-old Joseph Grant -- and learned he had taken the phone from the victim.  When officers tried to take him into custody... they say they got into a brief stuggle with Grant.  However... he was soon after taken into custody on charges of  fourth-degree grand larceny... and, resisting arrest.

House fire in Harmony blamed on electrical issue...
An electrical issue in a crawl space under a home late Thursday afternoon led to a fire in the town of Harmony.  Sheriff's Office fire investigators say Panama firefighters were called to the scene at 699 Blockville-Watts Flats Rd. shortly before 5 p.m.  Once the fire was out... the Fire Investigation Team was called in... and, determined the blaze started accidently in the crawl space.  No injuries were reported.

Chautauqua County sees 9th best drop in drug overdose deaths in NYS from 2020 to 2025...
Drug overdose deaths in New York state... and, Chautauqua County in particular... have fallen dramatically over the past three to five years.  A study by the addiction recovery guide "AddictionResource.net..." reports the state's overall rate has fallen by 43.5% since hitting it's peak in 2022... and, Chautauqua County's has fallen by 38% from 2020 to 2025.  Chautauqua County Health Department Senior Public Health Planner Steve Kilburn says the number of overdose deaths here actually peaked in 2023... and, in 2024... fell by about 50%... and, it fell again in 2025 by another 25%.  Chautauqua County's decline in overdose deaths ranked number-9 in the state... and, Kilburn says a big reason for that is more widespread availability of Naloxone... also known as Narcan.  It's designed to revive someone who primarily has overdosed on Fentanyl, or Heroin, among others.  Kilburn says other factors leading to the decline are increased awareness... and, a diluted supply.  For more help in dealing with addiction... go on-line to CombatAddictionCHQ.com.

Jamestown Riverwalk bike path named in honor of late Tony Dolce...
The sun was shining down on Jamestown's westside Thursday afternoon for the formal dedication of the "Tony Dolce Riverwalk Bike Path."  Mayor Kim Ecklund and members of the late Tony Dolce's family unveiled the sign at the bike path's entrance on West Eighth Street.  Ecklund noted Dolce's many contributions as a councilman... and, long-time teacher in the Jamestown Public Schools.  However... Ecklund also pointed out how he enjoyed athletics... and, keeping in shape.  She says he often would walk or bike on the path.  Dolce also coached baseball and cross-country at Jamestown High School... and, several former and current members of the teams were on hand.
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Tony Dolce's two adult children also spoke during the dedication.  Christian... who is also General Manager of the Jamestown Tarp Skunks Summer collegiate baseball team... thanked everyone who came... and, talked about how his father "loved this city." His daughter... Amelia Witkowski... says the family has heard several stories since her father's passing... and, the stories have taken on new meaning to them... and, who how much the city meant to him.  Tony Dolce passed away in his sleep the early morning hours of last July 18 at the age of 64.

Flight 44-2 Exhibit opens Saturday at Lucile M. Wright Museum...
The Lucile M. Wright Air Museum will open an exhibit Saturday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the crash of Continental Charters Flight 44-2 in Cattaraugus County.  Museum Curator Dennis Webster says the crash... which killed 26 people... occured on a foggy night on Dec. 29, 1951... and, left 14 other passengers stranded in the snow and cold for three days and two nights.  To this date... Dennis says it's the longest stranding of a large group of airplane crash survivors in North American history.  Now, for the first time, a special museum exhibit will commemorate the tragic event, memorialize the victims of the crash, and honor the bravery of the survivors and rescuers.  The exhibit features a timeline from the Dec. 29, 1951, flight scheduled from Miami to Pittsburgh and Buffalo... to it's tragic end on Bucktooth Ridge in the town of Napoli... with photographs, maps, interviews, and artifacts from the crash.  Saturday's grand opening for the exhibit runs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the museum... which is located on the first-floor of the Hotel Jamestown Building on West Third Street in Jamestown.  For more information... go to the museum’s website, lucilemwrightairmuseum.org, or by emailing wrightcurator@gmail.com.

Jamestown man, 71, killed in one-car crash just outside the city....
A man from Jamestown has been killed in a single-car accident just outside the city in the town of Kiantone.  State Police in Jamestown say they were called to the scene on Foote Avenue Extension just after 10:30 a.m. Wednesday for the crash.  Troopers have identified the person killed as 71 year-old George Bunker.  Police say Bunker was driving southbound at the time of the accident.  There were no other occupants in the car... and, the investigation is continuing.

Forestville man arrested for "inappropriate" communications with juvenile victim...
A north county man has been arrested for allegedly communicating with a juvenile victim last month in an "inappropriate manner."  Sheriff's officers say they began an investigation into a Sept. 18 incident... and, on Wednesday arrested 54 year-old Theodore Brisley of Forestville for endangering the welfare of a child.  Brisley was arraigned an issued an appearance ticket for Hanover Town Court at a later date.  The Sheriff's Office says it "remains committed to protecting children and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.

Borrello says huge buy of new, compressed natural gas buses by MTA shows flaws in electric bus push...
A decision by the New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority to buy 650 new, compressed natural gas buses is getting some scrutiny from a state lawmaker from the region.  The move is considered the biggest single upgrade to the MTA fleet in 13 years.  However... it is a move contrary to previous efforts to go electric.  It caught the eye of local State Senator George Borrello... who pointed to ongoing problems with electric buses.  Borrello says it's questionable, though, as to whether the move is designed to get Hochul, and state Democrats, "through this election."  The MTA says the buses will be purchased with funding secured by Governor Kathy Hochul in the MTA’s 2025-29 Capital Plan and will fulfill the MTA’s commitment to modernize its bus fleet made in the "Next Stop: Faster Buses, Better Service" plan announced by the governor and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani this summer.  The MTA says using compressed natural gas is a "cheaper, greener alternative to diesel fuel."  Borrello says the state needs a more "common sense" approach to energy policy.  He says electric school buses used in our region have already had major issues... including losing electric power in the cold weather.  He says that's the big reason why the electric bus mandate has been delayed for five-years.

BPU warns customers about reported text scams about shutting off utilities...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities is warning customers about texts they may have received... supposedly from the BPU... stating that their utilities will be shut off for lack of payment.  BPU Communications Coordinator Becky Robbins says these texts are a scam because they do not send texts to customers threatening to shut off service.  

Ecklund, city, announce Halloween Trick-or-Treat Trail" coming Oct. 24, and different Trick-or-Treat hours on Sat., Oct. 31...
Halloween is fast approaching... and, the city of Jamestown has announced it's fifth-annual Riverwalk "Trick-or-Treat" Trail and Halloween trick-or-treat hours.  The Riverwalk event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 24... beginning at 5 p.m. from the Washington Street Bridge to Panzarella Park.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says it's the first of the city's two events, and it will run until 7 p.m. and will mainly involved the area between the two pedestrian bridges on both sides of the river.  She also threw out the idea of changing Trick-or-Treat hours on Saturday, Oct. 31 from the usual 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., to 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.  Council later voted to change the hours -- for this year only -- to 5 to 7.  While there will be more daylight for those Halloween hours... the city reminds children and parents to be cautious while walking through neighborhoods and crossing streets.  As for the Riverwalk program... Ecklund says that "the event has become a wonderful Halloween tradition in our community, and we look forward to another evening filled with costumes, treats, and fun along the Riverwalk." 

Electrical issue listed as cause of early Tuesday morning fire in town of Dunkirk...           
An overnight fire early Tuesday has damaged a home in the town of Dunkirk.  Sheriffs' Department emergency dispatchers say West Dunkirk firefighters were called to the scene at 4561 Route 5 shortly before 3 a.m. Wednesday... and, were joined by multiple mutual aid departments.  Once the blaze was put out...   the county's fire investigation team was called in... and, found the flames originated in the kitchen area of the home... and, that it was caused by an electrical issue.  The fire has been ruled as accidental.  No injuries were reported... the local Red Cross is helping the family.

Fischer goes for Varsity Football win number 249 tonight...
A local high school football coach will be trying to make Section 6 history tonight when Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove takes on Salamanca.  Falconer/Cassadaga Valley/Maple Grove Head Coach Curt Fischer enters the game with 248 career, Varsity wins... which is tied for the all-time, Section-6 record.  A win against Salamanca would break the record.  We'll have that game Thursday night on WJTN-AM and FM... beginning at 7 p.m. 

Two Jamestown residents among seven who have pled guilty in connection with WNY drug ring...
Seven people -- two from Jamestown -- have pleaded guilty and have been sentenced in connection with a drug trafficking operation in Western New York.  State Attorney General Letitia James has announced the pleas by the seven for selling fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine throughout the region.  James says her office's investigation recovered nearly one-kilogram of cocaine... worth $30,000... more than half a pound of methamphetamine worth $1,500... more than one ounce of fentanyl worth $1,600... and, about $4,000 in cash.  All seven defendants were indicted in February 2025, and have since pleaded guilty.  One of the local defendents... 32-year-old Devan Huntington... pleaded guilty in November 2025 to third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  As part of his plea... James says he admitted to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to sell.  Huntington is still awaiting sentencing.  The second defendent... 52-year-old Sabrina Leeper... pleaded guilty in September 2025 to third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.  As part of her plea... Leeper admitted to selling methamphetamine.  She was sentenced last Jan. 15 to five years of probation.  Two of the key leaders of the drug ring... Ronnie Dupree and Antwain Jackson of Buffalo... traveled from Buffalo to Jamestown to meet customers and make sales. 

Two arrested in Jamestown for drug trafficking...         
A man and woman from Jamestown have been arrested following a drug raid early Tuesday morning on the city's northside.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's officers say their narcotics investigators... along with those from JPD... executed a serach warrant at 1087 N. Main St. shortly after 6 AM.  The JPD SWAT Team forced entry to the home... and, located 44-year-old Angel MacDonald... and, 51 year-old Ralik Hamilton... inside.  Police also seized 81.4 grams of crack cocaine... 8.2 grams of cocaine... .3 grams of methamphetamine... scales and packaging material used to traffic drugs... and, nearly $500 in cash.  MacDonald was charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, tampering with physical evidence.  Hamilton was charged with first-degree criminal nuisance.  Both were taken to the city jail with MacDonald to be arraigned on her charges.  Hamilton was issued an appearance ticket and released.  

Quick work by Ripley firefighters confines ceiling fan fire to home's bathroom...
Fast work by Ripley firefighters limited damage to a home in the town of Ripley Tuesday afternoon.  County Emergency dispatchers say crews were called to the scene at 9807 Sandy Lane shortly after 1 p.m. for a reported structure fire.  The county's Fire Investigation Team was later called in to look for the cause... and, found it was a malfunctioning ceiling exhaust fan in the bathroom.  Officials say crews were able to contain the fire to the bathroom resulting in minimal damage to the home.  Investigators say quick actions by the occupant... and, firefighters... confined flames to the bathroom area.  There were no injuries... and, the fire's been ruled accidental.

Fredonia firefighter named county's Firefighter of the Year...
A member of the Fredonia Fire Department has been named the Chautauqua County Fire Service's Firefighter of the Year.  Captain Dan Aldrich got the commendation at the Fredonia Fire Hall this past weekend in recognition of the actions he took during an ice rescue operation in the town of Portland.  County Fire Advisory Board Awards Chair Marsha Holland, who presented the award, says Aldrich responded from his residence to an incident involving two individuals who fell through a frozen pond at an address on Route 5 last Feb. 28.  One of the two individuals was able to get out of the water before first responders arrived.  Holland says coordinated efforts by Aldrich, who is part of the county's Water Emergency Team, allowed responding firefighters to pull out the victim who was still in the water.  County Emergency Services Director Noel Guttman nominated Aldrich for the award.

DeJoy leaving Dunkirk to take position with NC not-for-profit at end of October...
The city of Dunkirk will be in search of a new Director of Planning and Development... and, Democrats will have a new candidate for county legislature.  That after Jamestown's Vince DeJoy said that he is leaving both positions at the end of the month to accept a position with a not-for-profit health care organization in North Carolina.  DeJoy says his position with Dunkirk has "been a passion," and he thanked Mayor Kate Wdowiasz, along with his colleagues at the city and county levels.  He says he's very "grateful and thankful" to have the opportunity to work in the city of Dunkirk.  DeJoy, who was appointed in November 2021, touted numerous accomplishments during his time with the city.  Among them are his role in helping Dunkirk land a $10-million, Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant from the state, as well as other grants from state and federal governments and others.  
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With DeJoy leaving for North Carolina, he also plans to soon resign from his seat on the Chautauqua County Legislature.  DeJoy says the county's Democratic Committee feels it has a "very, very strong, respectable" candidate to potentially replace him.  His name will still be on the ballot in November because it's too late to remove it.  However... he believes it's a good replacement.  DeJoy has represented Legislature District 9 in Jamestown since January.

Pair arrested in Jamestown following northside drug raid...         
Two people from Jamestown have been arrested following a drug raid early Tuesday morning on the city's northside.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's officers say their narcotics investigators... along with those from Jamestown police... executed a serach warrant at 1087 N. Main St. shortly after 6 a.m.  The JPD SWAT Team forced entry to the home... and, located 44-year-old Angel MacDonald... and, 51 year-old Ralik Hamilton... inside.  Police also seized 81.4 grams of crack cocaine... 8.2 grams of cocaine... point-3 grams of methamphetamine... scales and packaging material used to traffic drugs... and, nearly $500 in cash.  MacDonald was charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, tampering with physical evidence.  Hamilton was charged with first-degree criminal nuisance.  Both were taken to the city jail with MacDonald to be arraigned on his charges.  Hamilton was issued an appearance ticket and released.  Anyone with information on drug or other suspicious activity in their area is asked to call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420... or the JPD Tip line at 483-8477.

One person taken to the hospital after car crashes into a ditch in Sherman...
One person was sent to an Erie, Pa. hospital after their car crashed into a deep ditch in the town of Sherman last Sunday night.  On it's Facebook page... Stanley Hose Company officials say they responded... along with County EMS... to the scene... and, began working to safely extricate the patient.  The person was freed... and, transported to UPMC Hamot Medical Center for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.  No charges were reported.

Erie, Pa. shooting victims, and suspect, now identified...
A coroner on Monday released the names of the gunman and six of the eight people he shot and killed at a home in Erie, Pa., including seven of his relatives.  The shooter in Friday's attack was 45-year-old Matthew Stone, Sr., according to Erie County coroner Lyell Cook.  Police say Stone took his own life at the home.  Cook says the adult victims were 44-year-old Michelle Stone... 24 year-old Angelina Stone... who was due to give birth Monday... 19 year-old Jonathan Stone... 21 year-old Matthew Stone... and, two women who lived at other addresses: 37-year-old Lora Roberts... and 51-year-old Twila Tanner.  The coronoer added that a 5-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl also died, but that state law prevented him from releasing their names.  At a memorial to the victims... Julius Windham said his daughter Amarianna was the toddler who was killed.  The girl's mother was Angelina Stone, who was also the mother of the boy who died.  The motive for the shooting remains unknown.

Carle feels he brings strong credentials to State Assembly race...
A former Chautauqua County Legislator from Fredonia believes he's the right person to send to Albany as a member of the State Assembly.  Democrat Tom Carle announced earlier this year that he's running for the 150th District seat currently held by Westfield's Andrew Molitor.  Carle... who previously ran for Congress and County Executive... feels he's also on the right side of several issues... including the need to support mergers in the county in government and schools... and, take money to use to lower the tax levy.  Carle touted his resume of managing and turning around companies and businesses in the eastern U.S. and in other parts of the world.  He says he's still concerned about the county losing businesses... along with 12,000 to 14,000 residents over the past 20 years.  Carle adds that this may well be his last run for elected office... depending on the outcome in November.  He made his comments on this past weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.

Fredonia man arrested for disorderly conduct...         
A Fredonia man has been arrested for becoming disorderly during a harassment incident involving another person in the town of Chautauqua.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a location on Barber Road just before 4 p.m. Sunday on a report of the disorderly person.  Deputies investigated... and, arrested 52 year-old Francis Kiley III on one count of second-degree aggravated harassment.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.

Man from South Dayton arrested in Villanova for operating an ATV while drunk...         
A South Dayton man has been arrested for allegedly operating an all-terrain vehicle while drunk on a road in the town of Villanova.  Sheriff's officers say a patrol spotted 43-year-old Brandon Czechowski commit a traffic infraction shortly before 11:30 last Friday night... and, he was stopped.  Deputies determined that Czechowski was driving the ATV while intoxicated... and, he was taken into custody.  He's charged with unlawful operation of an ATV on a highway... and, DWI.  He was later released with appearance tickets for Villanova Town Court.

Jamestown man arrested for allegedly threatening two people with a knife in front of multiple children...
A city man is accused of threatening two people with a knife last Saturday night in front of three children on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to the scene for a person with a weapon shortly before 5 p.m. -- along with State Police.  Officers say they secured the scene on arrival... and, found the suspect... 38 year-old Angel Baez-Huertas.  Further investigation showed that Huetras had allegedly menaced two people with the knife... and, threatened to kill them in from of the children.  Police also confirmed that Huertas was the subject of an active order of protection involving one of the children present.  He was arrested for third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... two counts of second-degree menacing... second-degree criminal contempt... and, three counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  He was held pending arraignment.

Man with connections to people victimized in last Friday's mass shooting says suspect showed no signs of distress or anger prior to incident...
A man whose toddler was among eight people killed in a mass shooting in Erie, Pa., says that the gunman was a grandfather who never seemed distressed or out of the ordinary.  Julius Windham said Sunday -- "I think that was a front for him.  Him every day, him smiling and being just -- you would think of nothing like that would happen."  Windham spoke to a reporter as he stood at a memorial to victims of Friday’s shooting, including his 1-year-old daughter Amarianna, her pregnant mother and the woman’s 5-year-old son and unborn baby.  The 45-year-old gunman -- who remains unidentified -- took his own life.  However... Erie Police Chief Rick Lorah said he was related to seven of the victims.  The eighth was a friend of the pregnant woman, he said.  Police have not made their names public, either.  Those killed include 2 women outside the home.  

City Council President says mayor's tentative budget isn't "ugly..." but, not good, either...
Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund's proposed 2027 budget is not "an ugly one..." but, it's not a good one, either.  Those are the feelings of City Council President Regina Brackman following the mayor's release of the $47.3-million spending plan that increases taxes by 7.3%.  It increases the tax rate by $1.87 cents per $1,000.  Brackman says she is happy to see no lay-offs in the budget... in particular, the 12 firefighters hired under American Rescue Plan Act... and, SAFER grant funding.  Both are running out at the end of this year... or early next.  Ecklund is also proposing use of $2.77-million in undesignated fund balance to hold down the tax increase.  Brackman says that leaves the city's "rainy day" fund well below what's recommended... and, she's "hoping" they don't have to.  The includes use of some of the $1.59-million was in additional "Temporary Municipal Aid" that Jamestown and some other cities received from New York state.  However... there is no additional state funding for the new city budget. 

Texas teen arrested for DWI after being seen driving the wrong-way on city street...
An 18 year-old resident of Texas has been arrested for drunk driving after he was stopped for driving the wrong way on a one-way street in Jamestown.  City police say they stopped the vehicle shortly after 1:30 a.m. last Friday at the intersection of North Main and East Sixth Streets after spotting the vehicle traveling the wrong way.  During the investigation... officers found that the unidentified driver had been operating the
vehicle after consuming alcohol while under the age of 21.  The teen was arrested without incident for driving the wrong way on a one-way street... and, operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol while under the age of 21.  The 18 year-old was held pending arraignment.

Pa. man arrested for driving the wrong way on W 6th Street...
A Bradford, Pennsylvania man has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk when his car was spotted going the wrong-way on a one-way street in Jamestown.  City police say a patrol was in the area of Washington and West Sixth Streets shortly before Midnight Saturday when they saw the vehicle going the wrong way on West Sixth.  Officers stopped the car, driven by 49 year-old Kenneth Distrola, Jr., and, found he was driving while in an intoxicated state.  Police also found that Distrola was driving with a revoked driver's license.  He was arrested for DWI... aggravated unlicensed operation... driving the wrong way on a one-way street... and, having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle.  Distrola was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

CHQ Chamber presents annual awards at Banquet...
The CHQ Chamber rolled out the blue carpet last week to celebrate several businesses and organizations across Chautauqua County.  Those organizations were recognized during the Chamber's annual Awards Banquet at the SUNY College at Fredonia.  Among the awardees was DFT Communications in Fredonia, which received the Chamber's Business of the Year Award.  DFT Co-President Mark Maytum says he's very proud to accept the award on behalf of it's employees.  Wells Enterprises in Dunkirk was named the Chamber's Producer of the Year.  The local ice cream plant recently completed Phase 2 of its expansion project and gained recognition from a national dairy publication.  Wells representative Brian Ardillo says that awards represents what his team does every day.  The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation received the Not-for-Profit of the Year Award.  The other award recipients were Chautauqua Lake Dental (Business Champion Award), Westfield Makerspace (Emerging Business of the Year), Sanfilippo Solutions, Inc. (Service Business of the Year), and 3 Lakes Cafe (Hospitality Business of the Year). 

Ecklund proposes $47.3-million, 2027 Budget with 7.3% tax increase...
Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund has proposed a 2027 budget that increases taxes by 7.3%... and, includes no lay-offs.  Ecklund took the wraps off the tentative, $47.3-million spending plan Thursday afternoon at City Hall.  Even though grant funding is going away for 12 firefighters... Ecklund is proposing the city pick up that additional $1.5-million cost to keep services in place... and, is looking to offset costs by attrition, and additional ambulance revenues.  She adds that several other costs are also going up significantly.  Ecklund listed at least five... including state pension costs for Tier 6 employees.  She says those are going up by 47%.  Ecklund adds that both fuel and road salt costs are projected to be much higher in 2027.  However... the tax base has basically remained flat.  Ecklund's proposal increases the tax rate to $27.63 per $1,000 assessed value... a $1.87 per thousand increase.  She says the average home, assessed at $70,000 would pay an additional $130 per year.  Ecklund is projecting a 4% increase in sales tax revenues... and, is proposing using $2.77-million in undesignated fund balance to offset the increases.  The City Council will begun budget reviews on Mon., Oct. 19.  A final budget is due Dec. 1.
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One bit of good news for Senior citizen homeowners is that the senior property tax exemption would increase from $22,000 of income a year to $28,000. 

Quattrone says Sheriff's Office budget for 2027 is "lean..."
Chautauqua County's top cop says his department's tentative spending plan for 2027 is being kept as tight as possible.  However, the size of that budget is still bigger compared to this year.  Sheriff Jim Quattrone says his agency's spending will increase just over 5%... due primarily to increases in two areas -- one is collective bargaining agreements, the other is computer software... which he says impacts their radio systems and records management.  Quattrone says the other areas of his budget that will see increases include utilities, fuel and food.  He describes what his budget message is to county legislators... and, that's the fact it's a "lean" budget and keeps services stable.  County lawmakers began reviewing all department budgets this week.

Army Corps announces Michigan company has received contract for Barcelona Harbor Shoaling project...
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $7.3-million contract to a Michigan-based company to remove built-up sedment and install a wave-absorbing structure along the West Breakwater in Barcelona Harbor.  The Army Corps Buffalo Office reports the contract was awarded in late September to Great Lakes Dock and Materials.  Officials say the project is designed to "provide a long-term solution to significant shoaling and blockage of the federal navigation channel which has caused dangerous conditions for boaters on Lake Erie."  The Corps say the contract includes removal of the built-up sediment... and, installation of a stone structure to absorb the waves to address dangerous shoaling in the Westfield area.  The project is 100% federally funded... and is expected to take place next year.

City man arrested for drug possession, and giving officers a false name following street check...
A street check by police on Jamestown's eastside has led to the arrest of a city man for drug possession and lying about his identity.  Jamestown police say a patrol in the area of Winsor Street saw 33 year-old Shawn Beardsley walking on the roadway just after 1 a.m. Wednesday.... and, conducted the street check.  Officers had prior knowledge that Beardsley was sought on an outstanding city court warrant... and, he allegedly gave police the name of a relative to avoid arrest.  They also found that he was in possesion of a quantity of cocaine.  Beardsley was taken into custody without incident on charges of second-degree criminal impersonation... seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, failure to use the sidewalk... in addition to the warrant.  He was held pending arraignment.

Man from Ontario, NY arrested for shoplifting in Mayville...         
A Western New York man has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting at a Mayville convenience store.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene just after 11 a.m. Monday... and, investigated.  Deputies say they found that 40 year-old Ryan Lawliss of Ontario allegedly stole property from the store... and, he was arrested for petty larceny.  Lawliss was issued an appearance ticket for Chautauqua Town Court.

Jamestown man arrested for refusing to pick up trash and garbage he threw onto a street...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly throwing trash and other objects onto a roadway on Jamestown's northside.  City police were called to the scene last Sunday night... and, saw 41 year-old Michael Hetrick throwing trash and garbage from a truck... onto the road.  Officers told Hetrick several times to stop... but, he refused to listen.  Police then told him he was going to be ticketed for littering... and he then began to walk away.  Officers caught up with Hetrick... and, after a brief struggle... took him into custody.  He's charged with resisting arrest... obstructing governmental administration... and, violating the City Code for littering and refusing to remove garbage and junk from the roadway.  Hetrick was held pending arraignment.

Barn and adjacent shop destroyed by fire in Clymer...
Flames early Tuesday morning have destroyed a barn and a shop in the town of Clymer.  However... quick work by fire crews saved the adjacent house.  Stanley Hose Company officials say they responded with Clymer firefighters to the scene about 5:15 a.m., and, found the barn and shop fully-involved on arrival.  Officials say they quickly focused their efforts on protecting the home from the intense flames.  On the Stanley Hose Facebook page... they say "thanks to the quick and coordinated work of everyone on scene, the residence was saved with only minimal damage."  Mutual aid was also called in from Ashville... Findley Lake... Panama... Corry, Pennsylvania... and county EMS.  Crews were at the scene for several hours... and no one was hurt.  Officials add that all the animals in the barn were taken out safely.  No cause has been released at this time.

Hochul announces State Disaster Emergency in response to ongoing Measles outbreak...
Governor Kathy Hochul has issued an Executive Order declaring a State Disaster Emergency in response to the growing number of measles cases across rural areas of the state... and, neighboring ones.  Hochul says the order allows the state to respond more swiftly to the outbreak... and, allows healthcare professionals to take additional steps that will help get more New Yorkers vaccinated and tested -- if needed.   As of Oct. 3... the governor's office says there have been seven confirmed cases in New York City.. and 101 in New York State outside of New York City for 108 total cases this year, amid a global and domestic increase in measles cases.  There are now three confirmed cases is here in Chautauqua County.

Blakeman, local Republicans, tout his record, and "misery" caused by Hochul and Democrats...
The Long Island Republican who is challenging Governor Kathy Hochul for New York's top elected post campaigned in Western New York Monday.  One of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman's stops was in Dunkirk.  Local Republicans rallied at the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club in support of Blakeman.  The Nassau County Executive said his campaign is not a normal one... noting that he's running in a "deep blue" state.  He says people wonder how he can win... but, he replies that Hochul's unfavorability rating" is at 57%.  
Blakeman... who has been battling for more name recognition... calls this "a battle for the heart and soul of our state."  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy was among the elected leaders on hand to support Blakeman.  Langworthy urged county residents to rally around Blakeman.  He calls the Republican "what the doctor ordered" for the state.  State Senator George Borrello, who called the upcoming election a critical moment for New York, says the "pain and misery" experienced by state residents is directly linked to Hochul and the Democrats in charge in Albany.  Borrello says Blakeman will "turn the state around" and make New York a safe and affordable place to live.  State Assembly members Andrew Molitor of Westfield... and, Canesteo's Joe Sempolinski also spoke at the rally.  Molitor says he supports Blakeman because he's tired of seeing family and friends leaving the state.

Ecklund announces unveiling of new memorial to late City Councilman, Tony Dolce...
The city of Jamestown will honor the life and legacy of the longest serving member of the city council by renaming the Greater Jamestown Riverwalk Bike Path in his memory.  Mayor Kim Ecklund has announced that a public unveiling of the new "Tony Dolce Riverwalk Bike Path" will be held next Thursday, Oct. 15 at 3:30 p.m.  Ecklund made the announcement at this week's council work session.  She says it'll be on the path just off Eighth Street.  Tony Dolce passed away unexpectedly this past July 18th in his sleep.  He was 64.  His passing followed more than three decades of dedicated service to the city as a councilman and teacher.  Ecklund added that "Tony's love of running makes the Riverwalk a particularly meaningful place to honor his memory."  

City man arrested on drugs, criminal impersonation and drug possession...
A street check by police on Jamestown's eastside has led to the arrest of a city man for drug possession and lying about his identity.  Jamestown police say a patrol in the area of Winsor Street saw 33 year-old Shawn Beardsley walking on the roadway just after 1 a.m. Wednesday.... and, conducted the street check.  Officers had prior knowledge that Beardsley was sought on an outstanding city court warrant... and, he allegedly gave police the name of a relative to avoid arrest.  They also found that he was in possesion of a quantity of cocaine.  Beardsley was taken into custody without incident on charges of second-degree criminal impersonation... seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, failure to use the sidewalk... in addition to the warrant.  He was held pending arraignment.

Man from Jamestown arrested again for violating order of protection...
A city man convicted for previously violating an order of protection has been arrested again on Jamestown's eastside.  City police say a patrol was conducting a street check on 53 year-old Michael Cook and another person shortly before 3 a.m. Tuesday.  Officers say they found Cook and that person behind a business, and determined that the other person had a "stay-away" order against him.  Cook was taken into custody on one count of first-degree criminal contempt... and, transported to the city jail pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested for driving while under influence of drugs following accident in Brooklyn Square...
A city man is accused of driving while under the influence of drugs after backing his truck into a generator in Brooklyn Square late last week.  Jamestown police say they were called to a reported accident near the Community Bank building shortly before 11 a.m. Friday.  It was reported that the truck had backed into the generator on the property... and the driver was trying to leave the scene.  Police say they found that 70-year-old Gary Didomenico was operating the vehicle while his ability was impaired by drugs.... and, he was arrested and
charged with DWAI-Drugs... and, unsafe backing.  Didomenico was issued an appearance ticket for city court at a later date. 

Forster says JPD has possible suspect(s) for grafitti on westside of Washington St. Bridge...  Jamestown City Police are investigating a case of grafitti along the west side of the Washington Street Bridge last weekend.  Chief Scott Forster says the vandalism took place sometime between last Friday night... and Saturday morning.  Forster says their investigation has identified a possible suspect.  He adds the grafitti was spray-painted on a support pillar and a wall at about street level on the side of the storage facility in Steele Street.  Forster says a city crew is involved in cleaning up the grafitti... but, no damage estimate has been given.  If you have any information on the incident... call JPD at 483-7536... or the Tips line at 483-8477.  Forster says those responsible would face criminal mischief charges.

City Council committee unanimously approves forwarding local law to abolish dorment Strategic Planning and Partnerships Commission...
The Jamestown City Council's Public Safety Committee has approved fowarding a local law to abolish the currently-dorment Strategic Planning and Partnerships Commission.  The committee approved the move in a 3-0 vote.  Chairman Jeremy Engquist says panel members felt it was time to move the proposal to the full council for discussion.  However... two members of the public urged lawmakers to carefully consider all the ramifications of such a move.  Doug Champ pointed out that -- by nature -- strategic planning takes time... and evaluated "Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunites, and Threats...." or SWOT.  Champ says such planning takes three to 10 years to finally be realized.  Since being instituted in 1996... Jason Sample highlighted the key members... and, programs that came out of the Strategic Planning and Partnerships Commission.  One was the education program "The Jamestown Guarantee."  Sample... who is also running for city council... says there was also a neighborhood revitalization effort... and, another to help recruit new doctors and other health care professionals to fill a need here.  He says Dr. Lillian Ney also helped put a program in place to help those battling opioid and other addictions.  Dr. Ney and Greg Rabb each chaired or co-chaired the commission for a time while they were City Council presidents.

Gillibrand pleased to see more Democrats taking advantage of early voting across the nation...
A recent survey of early voting across the United States is showing more registered Democrats taking part than they did at this point in the 2024 election.  That was the finding among nearly 790,000 early votes cast leading up to last Wednesday by CNN.  U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York... who's been involved in several outside campaigns in recent years... says that's good news.  Gillibrand adds that recent polling for Democrat Senate candidates shows about a dozen races that were either leaning... or strongly Republican are now up for grabs... including Maine, North Carolina, Ohio, Iowa, Texas, Kansas, Arkansas... and, others they she could "not have imagined" that are in play.  Gillibrand adds Democrats are also in play in Georgia, New Hampshire and Michigan.  She made her comments during a recent virtual press conference.

Two arrested in Dunkirk drug bust early last week... 
An investigation into alleged firearms and narcotics activity in the city of Dunkirk led to a raid... and, the arrest of two people.  Sheriff's deputies say their narcotics investigators... along with those from Dunkirk and Jamestown... executed a search warrant at 935 Swan St. last Tuesday afternoon.  Officers say they arrested 20 year-old Balin Rader... and, 45 year-old Holly Pilarski inside.  During the investigation... police say they seized a quantity of cocaine and psilocybin mushrooms... scales... and, packaging material used for trafficking drugs... and, a quantity of cash.  Both Rader and Pilarski were charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Both were issued appearance tickets for Dunkirk City Court at a later date.  

Sherman man arrested for DWI following accident in Ripley...  

A Sherman man faces a drunk driving charge following a one-car crash early this morning in the town of Ripley.  Sheriff's Officers were called to the scene on Northeast Sherman Road shortly after Midnight on a report of an accident.  They identified the driver as 63 year-old Mark Freligh.  Deputies say they determinied that Freligh was driving while intoxicated... and, he was arrested for DWI... and, moving from lane unsafely.  He was issued appearance tickets for Ripley Town Court.

Dunkirk woman arrested following multi-town vehicle pursuit...
A north county woman faces multiple charges after allegedly leading police on a vehicle pursuit from Dunkirk to the town of Charlotte.  Sheriff's officers say Dunkirk police tried to stop a car being driven by a woman sought on an arrest warrant about 3 a.m. Sunday.  However... deputies say the driver -- identifed as 53 year-old Susan Lilly of Dunkirk -- failed to comply, and fled the scene.  Sheriff's officers joined with local police to "safely manage" the incident and the car was eventually stopped in the town of Charlotte.  Deputies say Lilly was taken into custody without further incident on charges including:  unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle... third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... failure to comply with a lawful order... and reckless driving.  Lilly was issued appearance tickets for Pomfret Town Court at a later date.

Dunkirk man arrested following drug bust in north county city...
A man from Dunkirk faces drug-related charges following a raid on a home in the north county city last week.  Sheriff's officers say they concluded a lengthy investigation into illegal narcotics activity by executing a search warrant at 421 Plover St. shortly before 6 a.m. last Wednesday with the help of Dunkirk, Jamestown and Buffalo Police along with the ATF.  Police made entryi with the help of the Sheriff's Office SWAT Team... and, they located 39 year-old Lucas Smyczek inside.  They also found 5.6 grams of fentanyl, a quantity of cocaine, scales and packaging material used for the sale and distribution of narcotics and a quantity of cash.  Smyczek was charged third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... tamping with physical evidence and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Police also found that Smyczek was sought on a Jamestown city court warrant.  He was taken to the Dunkirk Police Station to be arraigned in city court.  

Falconer man arrested for allegedly stealing "a large quantity of cash" from Jamestown home...
A Falconer man is accused of stealing a "large quantity" of cash from a home on Jamestown's westside early last weekend.  City police responded to the scene just after 1:30 p.m. last Friday.  Officers say they received a report of a male subject entering the residence, while the homeowners were inside, and took the cash.  Police say 26 year-old Corry Decker then fled on foot before they arrived.  Officers later found Decker a short distance away... hiding in a gravel pit.  As officers approached... they say Decker tried to hide the stolen money in the gravel.  However... police recovered all the cash and arrested Decker without incident for second-degree burglary... third-degree grand larceny... and, tampering with physical evidence.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Chautauqua County Democrats welcome Gies as they open Campaign Headquarters in Jamestown...
With under a month left before Election Day... Chautauqua County Democrats enthusiastically opened their campaign headquarters in Jamestown Friday night.  County Democrat Committee Chairwoman Marcia Johnson addressing a full house of the party faithful at 19 East Third St.  A big reason so many were on hand was an appearance by Congressional challenger Aaron Gies of Olean.  Gies introduced himself as a person brought up in North Carolina living by the "Golden Rule" in a working class family, and that you treated other people the way you want to be treated.  Unfortunately... Gies says the federal government... under President Trump and incumbant Congressman Nick Langworthy... isn't doing that.  He says he's running to "legislate for the Common Good..." by making government more transparent... accountable... and, focused on making a "good life affordable for everyone." 
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County Legislator Tom Nelson... who is also city Democrat Committee Chairman... says it's easy to see why Gies' popularity is growing.  He says when you talk with him, you can understand why people get excited.  Some other county legislature Democrat candidates were also on hand... along with State Senate candidate Victoria Guite... and, Assembly candidate Tom Carle.

Out-building in Panama heavily damaged by fire...
An out-building on a property near the village of Panama was extensively damaged by fire last Saturday night.  Chautauqua County emergency dispatchers say Panama firefighters were called to the scene at 6108 Route 474 -- between Panama and Ashville -- shortly after 6 p.m., and, found flames coming from the building.  Panama was joined at the scene by Ashville, Sherman, Clymer and Bear Lake fire crews... and, county EMS.  There were no injuries.  The cause was found to be accidental.

City man arrested for stealing cellphone, and not allowing victim to leave residence during domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly taking a person's cellphone and holding them against their will during a domestic incident.  City police say they were called to a southside address shortly after 5 p.m. last Friday for a domestic dispute.  Officers say the suspect... 36 year-old Patrick Brady... had already left the scene with the victims cell phone before leaving.  Officers returned to the residence shortly after 5:30 and Brady had returned was taken into custody.  Police say further investigation revealed that Brady damaged the victim's Ipad and would not allow the victim to leave the residence.  They add the incident occurred in front of two small children.  Brady was taken to the city jail pending arraignment on charges including fourth-degree Grand Larceny... fourth-degree criminal mischief... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Teen from Ellicottville killed in truck crash in Ashford...
A Ellicottville teenager has died from injuries suffered when the truck he was riding in  crashed in the Cattaraugus County town of Ashford.  State Police in Machias say the driver of the Dodge pick-up... 19 year-old Baily Fuller of West Valley... was eastbound on Felton Hill Road about 6:15 p.m. Wednesday when the vehicle missed a curve... and, slammed into a tree.  Troopers say the passenger... 16 year-old Dominic Fuller... was thrown from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.  Police say Baily Fuller was taken to Bertrand-Chaffee Hospital in Springville for non-life threatening injuries.  There were no signs of impairment... however... the crash remains under investigation.  Troopers say neither occupant was wearing a seat belt... and, excessive speed was the primary factor in the accident.

DRI Local Planning Committee gets look at the 24 projects and activities being proposed for funding...
Twenty-four projects and activities totaling just over $36-million have been submitted for funding under the city of Jamestown's Downtown Revitalization Initiative award.  The projects were highlighted at Wednesday's meeting of the DRI's Local Planning Committee at the Prendergast Library.  The biggest request was by the city itself... proposing nearly $6.5-million for a number of projects that have to be done at Tracy Plaza... but, Mayor Kim Ecklund is realistic about what could be done with about $10-million available through the DRI.  She admits DRI projects should really be "innovative and transformational..." but, adds that the projects for city hall are still necessary.  The major ones include improving the decking and portions of city hall to make the more than 50-year-old building more usable.  The second largest ask was for $2.5-million for the $6.7-million redevelopment of the former Broadhead Mills location on East First Street... currently home to El Greco Woodworking.  A project to improve East First itself is also included.  Ecklund believes it's a "hidden gem" with the potential for distilleries, and manufacturing along the riverfront.... similar to what's been done on Buffalo's waterfront.  Some of the other proposals include $2.25-million for the Roosa Development proposal for the Lynn Building... and, plans to rehabilitate the exterior of the Hotel Jamestown Building... and, put a new roof on the Fenton History Center.  The next public LPC meeting will be held on Nov. 18.   

Jamestown man arrested for allegedly violating two orders of protection...
A city man faces multiple charges after allegedly violating two orders of protection... and, resisting arrest following a domestic incident.  Jamestown police say they were called to a westside address just before 1:30 a.m. Thursday... and, when they arrived -- saw the suspect -- 26 year-old Xavier Williams -- leaving the residence.  He then started running away because officers knew Williams was sought on active arrest warrant.  He was stopped nearby... and, after a brief struggle... he was taken into custody.  Further investigation found that two people inside the home have "stay-away" orders against Williams.  Due to his criminal history... police say he's charged with two counts each of Aggravted criminal contempt... and, first-degree criminal contempt.  Williams is also being held pending arraignment on charges of resisting arrest and second-degree obstructing governmental administration.

Wendel says rising property values a big reason for being able to keep tax levy increase for 2027 to zero...
Chautauqua County's top elected leader says rising property values is part of why he's able to propose a 2027 budget with a historically low property tax rate while keeping the tax levy flat.  County Executive P.J. Wendel says the county saw a 15.8% increase in its real estate market over the past year... and, that's led to increased assessments.  Wendel adds that the tentative spending plan, which he presented last week, will use over $11-million of the county's undesignated fund balance.  The Lakewood Republican calls it a "bold" move, but he says budgeting in past years has allowed him to use that much.  The proposed property tax rate would be reduced anotther 85-cents per $1,000 to $5.32 under the proposal.

Westfield man arrested for stealing juvenile's bicycle...
A Westfield man has been arrested for allegedly stealing a bicycle from a juvenile in the village this past Tuesday.  Westfield Police say the juvenile came to their office about 4 p.m. to report the theft.  Officers say they investigated... and, later located 34 year-old Brandon Bolinger... who was allegedly in possession of the stolen bike.  Bolinger was arrested for petty larceny and fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  He was processed in Westield Town Court and issued appearance tickets for a later date.

Langworthy lead Gies by 21-points in Cygnal poll...
A new poll by a right-leaning polling group shows incumbant Republican Congressman Nick Langworthy leading his Democrat opponent by 21-points.  The poll released late Wednesday by Cygnal shows among likely general election voters in the 23rd Congressional District shows Langworthy leading Olean's Aaron Gies, 54% to 33%.  The poll also shows Langworthy leading across both major regions by better than 50% to just over 30%.  In addition... Cygnal reports the Buffalo-area Republican leads among independents... 45% to 31%... and, receives support from 19% of registered Democrats.  The polling firm also found that Governor Kathy Hochul is only viewed favorabily in the district by 28%... to an unfavorability rating of 68%.  

Hochul announces completion of new Anew Center for The Salvation army of Jamestown... 
Construction of a new, $6-million women's emergency shelter for Jamestown's Anew Center has now been completed.  That from Governor Kathy Hochul... who says The Salvation Army of Jamestown's new facility will "ensure that domestic violence survivors who are homeless are connected to support programs."  Hochul says the new Anew center is a seven-unit... 19-bed emergency shelter... and, when opened... will assist survivors... including those experiencing homelessness with services and support.  The governor says the project received $4.4-million from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance's "Homeless Housing and Assistance Program."  The Anew Center replaces the Salvation Army’s previous 13-bed shelter, which occupied a historic building dating to the 1860s that was not ADA-compliant and required ongoing costly repairs. 

Hochul names AG James to be special prosecutor in Cornell gang rape case...
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says the woman who accused members of a Cornell University fraternity of gang rape was "failed" by people obligated to protect her, including police and the county prosecutor.  Hochul's claim came during a news conference Friday in which she gave details on her decision to turn the case over to a special prosecutor, state Attorney General Letitia James.  The governor says she made the decision after learning "troubling details" about how authorities have handled the woman's claims, including that the district attorney closed the case without having anyone interview the victim or anyone involved in the alleged attack. 

Sherman man charged with DWI after accident in Ripley...         
A Sherman man faces a drunk driving charge following a one-car crash early this morning in the town of Ripley.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Northeast Sherman Road shortly after Midnight on a report of an accident.  They identified the driver as 63 year-old Mark Freligh.  Deputies say they determinied that Freligh was driving while intoxicated... and, he was arrested for DWI... and, moving from lane unsafely.  He was issued appearance tickets for Ripley Town Court.

Traffic to be slowed on Harrison Street for BPU replacement of District Heat line...
Traffic may be slowed at times today and tomorrow on Harrison Street in Jamestown's Brooklyn Square area as the Board of Public Utilities replaces a District Heat line.  BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says a temporary traffic light will be used to close a portion of the street to one lane only when materials are moved into the area... or if traffic needs to be slowed.  The light will be available there for one week.

Guite announces run for NYS Senate...
The Democrat challenger for the 57th State Senate District seat has traveled the world... but, is now enjoying her Native American roots here in Western New York.  Victoria Guite is a SUNY at Fredonia graduate... who now lives in a trailer on her family's property on the smaller, Tonawanda-Seneca Reservation between Batavia and Akron.  After graduation... Guite says she taught English in South Korea for a time as an intern, did refugee resettlement work, and a methadone clinic, as well as a Congresman's office.  Guite says her decision to run for public office came after she had moved back to the reservation... and, was just beginning to enjoy their rural area's peace and quiet.  However a proposal for a hunge new data center was being pushed on them.  She says a wildlife preserve was also threatened.  Guite says she opposes huge data centers... but, believes communities need to make their own decisions about them.  Victoria Guite is my guest on this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.  She's challenging incumbant Republican George Borrello of Sunset Bay.

First "I SMART Corridor" meeting about supply chain opportunities with Semiconductor industry a definate success...
A full-house was on hand in Lakewood for a program about manufacturing and related opportunities in New York's growing Semiconductor industry.  The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency... Choose CHQ... and, others sponsored the first "I SMART Corridor Initiative" program at the Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union's Training Center.  IDA CEO... and, Deputy County Executive for Planning and Development Mark Geise says serious money is being put into that industry... including from New York state to help support supply chain development for facilities in places like Ohio, and Micron in Central New York.  The semiconductor industry is leading the way in the development and manufacturing of computer chips.  Geise says the IDA and other sponsors want to get local companies to look at ways they can be part of it.  Geise says one area that Chautauqua County manufacturers are strong at is "metal bending" which he says is very much needed in the semiconductor industry.  The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth, and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership also took part in the program.

City man arrested again on criminal contempt charge...
A man from Jamestown recently arrested for violating an order of protection has again been arrested for violating the stay-away order.  City police say they were conducting a street check near a northside business involving 21 year-old Tysean Mays shortly after 1 a.m. Friday.  Officers say they spotted Mays walking with a woman who had a full order of protection against him... and they also knew of an active warrant for his arrest.  While trying to take him into custody... police briefly struggled with Mays before he was subdued.  He was charged with second-degree criminal contempt... resisting arrest... and on the active bench warrant.  He's being held pending arraignment.

Two city men arrested for allegedly trepassing at business... and, stealing scrap and copper metal items...
Two men from Jamestown have been arrested for allegedly stealing scrap metal and copper belonging to an eastside business.  City police say they were called to the address about 3 p.m. Tuesday for a "suspicious situation" complaint.  On arrival... officers located 59-year-old Eugene Lesak, Jr., and, 62-year-old Mark Brightman inside a fenced in area of the business they were not allowed to be in.  Police say they found both men with the stolen items... and, that Brightman was in possession of a small quantity of methamphetamine.  Both men were arrested for third-degree criminal trespassing and fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  Police say Brightman's also charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  City police were assisted by Ellicott Town Police.  Both men were processed and released with appearance tickets.

Man from Jamestown arrested following alleged domestic violence incident...
A city man has been arrested after allegedly pushing a woman to the ground... and, trying to choke her during a domestic incident on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to the scene about 6:30 p.m. Monday for an alleged domestic incident.  Officers say they found that 42-year-old Ryan Edwards had allegedly thrown and damaged a protected party's cellphone.  Edwards is then accused of taking the woman to the ground and applying pressure to her neck.  Following the incident... he allegedly contacted the woman -- violating the order of protection -- numerous times using generated phone numbers.  Edwards then returned to the woman's house the following day and made contact with her... further violating the stay-away ordr.  With the help of Ellicott town police... city officers found Edwards outside the city... and, took him into custody.  He's being held pending arraignment on two counts of first-degree criminal contempt... one count of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation... and one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Gies stands with SEIU1199 workers to keep 23rd District hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies open...
The Democrat challenger in the 23rd Congressional District race has picked up a major endorsement from the nation's largest healthcare workers union.  Olean's Aaron Gies also used the opportunity outside the Dunkirk Rehabilitation and Nursing facility Monday to sound the alarm about an impending healthcare crisis putting hospitals and nursing homes at risk of closure in the southern tier.  Gies thanked regional SEIU1199 members for their support.  He also pointed out findings by the Fiscal Policy Institute that planned cuts to Medicare and Medicaid would mostly impact the 23rd District.  Gies says 12 hospitals are currently considered "at-risk..." and one of those is Westfield Memorial Hospital.  Since President Trump's "Big, Beautiful Bill" was signed into law last year... Gies says the 23rd District has five nursing homes... and, since 2023 has lost 28 pharmacies.  He adds more are at-risk. Gies blamed Langworthy in part due to his support of the "Big, Beautiful Bill."

Western Region OTB in Jamestown among the six slated for closure at the end of October...
After a year of internal turmoil and financial issues... Western Regional Off-Track Betting has announced it will be closing six of it's eight branches in the region.  The OTB Branch in Jamestown is one of those being considered for closure by Oct. 31.  Various Western New York media outlets report the others expected to close include Rochester... Auburn... Cheektowaga... Empire... and, North Tonawanda.   are all scheduled to close at the end of October.  The OTB board is expected to take formal action on the proposed plan, which was approved after several years of reviewing the financial performance and changing needs of the OTB branch network.  The Post-Journal reports the six branches currently proposed for closure lost about $730,000 in 2025... and, have already lost more than $700,000 through last month.  Those losses are projected to reach nearly $1-million for the full year.

Ecklund says next Local Planning Committee meeting for Jamestown's DRI will be held today (Wednesday)...
A significant step will be taken in the process of deciding which projects will be included in the city of Jamestown's Downtown Revitalization Initative today.  The Local Planning Committee assembled to guide the process will meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. this afternoon at the Prendergast Library.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says the committee and others attending will get a good look at the projects vying for some of the $10-million in state funding.  She says people will get a first look at all the projects being proposed... and, those total about $38-million to $40-million in requests.  Ecklund has hinted that a few of the projects include items that tie the downtown core to the Chadakoin River... including the Furniture Mart building... and, others.  From those nearly $40-million in projects... state economic development leaders will decide on 10 to 12 or so projects that will receive some kind of DRI money.

City man arrested following domestic violence incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly pushing and hitting a female victim during a domestic incident.  City police say they were called to an eastside address shortly after 11 a.m. Monday for an alleged domestic dispute.  Officers determined that during a verbal dispute that 40 year-old Corey Bryant had shoved and struck the victim... who had a valid order of protection against him.  Bryant was taken into custody, and charged with Felony first-degree criminal contempt... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment. 

City police investigating vehicle crash into DPW building Sunday night...
The investigation is continuing into an accident in which a vehicle struck a Jamestown Public Works Department building on Steele Street.  City police confirm the accident occured about 6 p.m. last Sunday at 158 Steele.  Chief Scott Forster says two people were taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  There was reportedly damage to the wall that was struck, and some immediate interior damage that's still being assessed.  No charges have been filed yet.

Jamestown man arrested for allegedly taking woman to the ground and choking her during domestic incident...
A city man has been arrested after allegedly pushing a woman to the ground... and, trying to choke her during a domestic incident on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to the scene about 6:30 p.m. Monday for an alleged domestic incident.  Officers say they found that 42-year-old Ryan Edwards had allegedly thrown and damaged a protected party's cellphone.  Edwards is then accused of taking the woman to the ground and applying pressure to her neck.  Following the incident... he allegedly contacted the woman -- violating the order of protection -- numerous times -- using generated phone numbers.  Edwards then returned to the woman's house the following day and made contact with her... further violating the stay-away ordr.  With the help of Ellicott town police... city officers found Edwards outside the city... and, took him into custody.  He's being held pending arraignment on two counts of first-degree criminal contempt... one count of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation... and one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

City Council approves receiving $1.6-million in state aid to help balance out 2026 and 27 budgets...
City lawmakers in Jamestown have unanimously approved receipt of nearly $1.6-million from New York state to help fill gaps in the city's budget this year and next.  Mayor Kim Ecklund is pleased to have the "Temporary Municipal Assistance" funding in the bank.  However... she says city leaders want to use as much as possible to offset the $2.8-million in undesignated fund balance used to balance this year's budget.  Ecklund says the current budget would have to be amended... but, adds the '26 spending plan is within 1% of where spending should be.  As for next year... Ecklund says she wants to avoid using a big chunk of the remaining $3.3-million in undesignated fund balance to put into the budget to hold off a huge increase in '27.  She says the county will be using a signficant amount of fund balance -- $11-million -- in County Executive P.J. Wendel's proposed budget.  Ecklund will be presenting her tentative budget on Thursday, Oct. 8.  Jamestown is receiving $1-million more than was initially projected in the state's $277-billion budget through temporary assistance program.

Brocton man arrested for allegedly stealing from car in Riverwalk Ctr. parking lot...
A man from Brocton has been arrested for allegedly stealing items from a car parked at the Riverwalk Center in Jamestown.  City police say they were called to the scene in Brooklyn Square about 6 p.m. Monday on a report of a man being chased down the street by the vehicle's owner.  Police say they later took 35-year-old Steven Seavy into custody near the St. Susans Center on Water Street where he was found in possession of the victim's wallet... which included credit cards and their Identification.  He's being held pending arraignment on charges of fourth-degree grand larceny... petty larceny... and, tampering with physical evidence. 

Homeless man arrested for allegedly stealing copper parts of St. Susan's Center cooling  system back in August...
A 33-year-old man who's been fed several times by the St. Susan's Center in Jamestown has now been arrested for allegedly stealing parts of the center's refrigeration unit last month.  City police say center leaders called them just after 5:30 a.m. on Aug. 16 about their surveillance cameras catching a man in the act of stealing various copper parts from the cooling system.  Officers say the actions by Jurall Reid... who's reportedly homeless... led to more than $4,800 worth of perishable food items spoiling.  Police say -- "the food that was destroyed feeds countless people in need on a daily basis... so the effects of Jurall Reid's actions were felt by many."  Surveillance video and several tips helped police determine that Reid had stolen and sold the parts.  He was arraigned on charges of second-degree criminal mischief... and, fifth-degree possession of stolen property... and, issued appearance tickets for city court.

Prosecutor reopens alleged gang rape at Cornell University in 2024...
A New York prosecutor has reopened an investigation into gang rape allegations at a Cornell University fraternity in response to a lawsuit filed by a woman who says she was sexually assaulted by seven students after being given alcohol and drugs.  Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten said Monday that his office will present evidence to a grand jury as he faces questions from the public about why there were no criminal prosecutions in the now two-year-old case.  The woman, identified only as Jane Doe in the lawsuit, filed the complaint Sept. 16... saying she was sexually assaulted at the Chi Phi fraternity house on the Ivy League campus in October 2024 after being pressured into snorting ketamine, smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol.  She became completely incapacitated while frat members were sexually assaulting her, the lawsuit alleges.  

City woman faces multiple drug-related charges following late week raid on Jamestown's westside...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly trafficking drugs following a raid on a home on the city's westside.  Jamestown police say their narcotics detectives... and, those with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's office... executed a search warrant at 107 Lister St. shortly before 9 a.m.  last Friday.  Inside... they found 58 year-old Debra Leeper... and, a subsequent search turned up quantities of fentanyl, crack cocaine, packaging material, digital scales and cash.  Leeper was charged with third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Anyone with any information about drug or other criminal activity in their area is asked to call the JPD Tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.  For the Sheriff's Office Tip line call either 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

Man arrested in Jamestown following alleged domestic violence incident...
A man from Jamestown has been accused of assaulting another person during a domestic violence incident early Sunday morning.  City police say they were called to an eastside address about 4 a.m., and, at the scene, met with the victim who had suffered injuries to their head.  Further investigation found that the victim suffered the injuries during a physical altercation with 44 year-old Kenneth Mosely, Sr.  Mosely was arrested for third-degree assault... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs, and being in possession of a gun...
A man from Jamestown is accused of driving drunk... and, being in illegal possession of a loaded gun following a traffic stop near the downtown area.  Jamestown police say they stopped a vehicle... driven by 21 year-old Trent Chapman... at West Second and Cherry Streets just after 11:30 p.m. last Saturday.  Officers say they soon after determined that Chapman was driving while under the influence of alcohol.  They also discovered that he was in possession of the loaded revolver.  Chapman was arrested for Aggravated DWI for having a blood alcohol content of .18 or higher... DWI... second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, other traffic tickets.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Borrello believes having "guardrails" on AI development is important for the state... and, nation...
As New York State advances guardrails for artificial intelligence, a local state lawmaker says the process needs to be done, whether those guardrails wind up being effective or not.  That from State Senator George Borrello... who penned an op-ed letter last year with a legislator from New York City about responsible AI development.  He adds that conversation needs to extend beyond New York... and really needs to be done internationally.  Borrello says the development of those safety measures should not hamper the United States' ability to lead in AI... because China would take advantage of that.  The Sunset Bay Republican also spoke about the investment framework that Governor Kathy Hochul released last week for communities that want to host data centers.  Borrello feels it's a responsible measure, but adds that he sees a lot of hypocrisy on that issue.  Especially regarding limitations on what type of energy can power data centers.

52nd annual Busti Apple Harvest Festival another big success...
The weather was great all weekend... and, it was another successful Busti Apple Harvest Festival at the town's Historical Society Grounds.  Historical Society President Joni Blackman says the weather was perfect... and, the event was a "huge success" for their more than 100 vendors... who reported "good sales" all weekend.  Blackman says there was a very good turn-out for programs in the 1847 Miller House... the Gristmill... and one-room school house.  She says the demonstration barn was also busy... with people -- including several children -- learning how to press cider, and other activities.  Blackman says there were also leather making demonstrations... along with a Civil War encampment.  She says the mill ran every moment they were open... and, nearly sold out what they had made.  

City man arrested following Friday domestic incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested following a domestic violence incident last Friday night on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 7 p.m., and, found that 22 year-old Jose Tochimani-Garmon had caused more than $1,000 worth of damage inside the home.  Garmon is also accused of preventing the victim from leaving the residence safely... and, struck the victim multiple times, causing physical injury.  He was arrested on charges including:  third-degree criminal mischief... criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and third-degree assault.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Jamestown man arrested on drug charges following investigation into suspicious situation on southside...
A call for a suspicious situation in the parking lot of a business on Jamestown's southside led to the arrest of a city man on drug-related charges.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 5 p.m. last Wednesday... and, their investigation found that the driver -- 36 year-old Matthew Goon -- was in possession of a quantity of a controlled substance, as well as driving while he was impaired by drugs.  Officers arrested Goon for DWAI... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was held pending arraignment.

Coleman sentenced to 20 years in prison for 2024 Lakeview Shock assaults...
A Long Island man who seriously assaulted three corrections officers at the Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility in Brocton will spend 20 years in state prison.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 37 year-old Windsor Coleman... formerly of Massapequa, NY... received the indeterminate sentence from County Court Judge David Foley Wednesday.  Schmidt says the sentence comes following Coleman's convictions in June after a jury trial... and, he was found guilty of four counts of second-degree assault against corrections officers.  He was also found guilty of two counts of first-degree promoting prison contradband.  District Attorney Felony Prosecutor Andrew Hall also successfully argued for "persistent felon" status at Coleman’s sentencing.  Schmidt says Coleman was represented by the Chautauqua County Public Defender’s Office.  He says the three officers were injured after being attacked by Coleman while doing a welfare check on his cell in late February of 2024.  During the incident... two officers were struck by Coleman with an object modified to be a weapon.  The third officer sustained injuries during the officer’s efforts to stop the attack and subdue Coleman.  Schmidt says -- quote "Corrections Officers put their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety and security of incarcerated individuals.  They should not live with the threat of injury."  

City woman arrested after juvenile child found to have stolen car... and, later crashed it...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly not supervising her minor child when they allegedly stole a car... and, later crashed it on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say a patrol tried to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle in the area of Foote Avenue and Harrison Street just after 2:30 a.m. Friday.  However... officers say the vehicle fled the scene and was later found crashed on Pratt Avenue.  While searching the area... officers found the juvenile driver... and, they were taken into custody and transported to police headquarters.  Police say they later found the car had been stolen from a city address... but, it had not yet been reported.  The juvenile's mother... 41 year-old Amber Giancotti... was notified and she came to JPD headquarters where she was arrested for endangering the Welfare of a Child -- for failure to exercise control of a minor.

Gillibrand pushing passage of BAD DEAL Act to stop tariff war with Canada...
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for passage of her legislation that would curb President Trump’s costly trade war with Canada.  The New York Democrat says this comes less than a week before a sweeping import ban on Canadian dairy products, alcohol, and motorcycles is set to take effect.  Gillibrand says her legislation... the "Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies -- or "BAD DEAL" Act... would repeal all tariffs under the Tariff Act of 1930.  Gillibrand says the tariffs "are weakening our economy and making everything more expensive."  She adds the BAD DEAL Act would also call for refunding Americans and American businesses for all duties paid under this authority.  Mr. Trump recently enacted 50% tariffs on a number of Canada goods... along with the Sept. 29 import ban on Canadian goods.  Canada soon after recipricated with their own tariffs on American goods.  Gillibrand says "President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever."  She says she's also found that American consumers and businesses are paying 96% of all the tariffs that have been enacted.

Chagnon receives 2026 Hamilton Community Service Award...
The man who has chaired the Chautauqua County Legislature in recent years has been presented a life-time service award from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.  The foundation says it recently celebrated a "lifetime of service" by Ellery's Pierre Chagnon by presenting him with the 2026 John D. Hamilton Community Service Award.  The award annually recognizes an individual whose "dedication, leadership and service have strengthened community spirit and enhanced the quality of life throughout the Chautauqua region."  The chair of the award committee -- Laura Otander -- says "working together is the theme for tonight’s celebration.  There are few people who have demonstrated the ability to work with a team to accomplish significant impact more than Pierre Chagnon."  For more than 40 years... Chagnon has served as a director, board member, board chair, committee chair or president for an extraordinary number of local organizations. 

Busti Apple Harvest Festival set for this weekend...
One of the regions's major Fall festivals will be held in the Jamestown area this weekend.  And... it's always held the last weekend in September.  The 52nd annual Busti Apple Harvest Festival returns to the grounds of the Busti Historical Society for two-days again this year.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says there'll be plenty to see and do each day... with it all centered around the historical Busti Mill and Museum.  It will include the restored gristmill... miller's house... and, more than 100 handicraft and demonstrator's booths... along with all things apple.  There's also an expanded Children's area.  Parking is free and festival admission is $5 for adults.  Children under 12 are free... and, no pets are allowed.  For more information... call (716) 483-3670.

Silver Creek HS Junior killed after being struck by CSX Train...
A north county teenager has died after being struck by a CSX train in the village of Silver Creek.  Sheriff's officers were called to the tracks shortly before 4 p.m. Wednesday on a report of a pedestrian being hit.  Deputies say their investigation showed that a 16-year-old juvenile had been struck.  The victim... identified by the Silver Creek school district as Kiera Beckstom... was pronounced dead at the scene.  The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Silver Creek fire rescuers... County EMS... and CSX personnel. 
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In a Facebook post this morning... Silver Creek Superintendent Katie Ralston announced the "tragic and unexpected death of Beckstrom... an 11th-grade student at our high school.  Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with Koda's family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all those who knew and loved her."  Ralston says the district has activated it's crisis response plan... and, have additional counselors and support staff available in the library today.  She says if you have concerns about your child or would like help in supporting them... call their Guidance Office at 716-934-2603, ext. 1123.

Westfield Academy and Central School put into lock-out status after incident at Westfield Memorial Hospital...
A report of a disorderly person in the area late Wednesday morning led to the Westfield Academy and Central Schools to go into a lock-out.  Westfield Police say they, and State Police, along with the Sheriff's Office, were called to Westfield Memorial Hospital about 10 a.m. on a report of a disorderly person inside.  Out of an abundance of caution... police say the Westfield schools activated their Shelter-in-Place, Hold-in-Place, Evacuate, Lock-out, and Lock-down -- or SHELL -- Protocol to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.  The district activated a lockout... which is a security measure intended to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the school while normal activities continue inside the building.  However... there was no direct threat to the school associated with the incident.  The situation at Westfield Memorial Hospital was resolved... and, the school lock-out was lifted.

Wendel presents tentative 2027 county budget that again cuts tax rate... leaves tax levy flat... 
Chautauqua County's property tax rate could be the lowest it's been since it's current form of government began five decades ago.  That will happen if the county legislature keeps that part of County Executive P.J. Wendel's 2027 budget proposal in place.  Wendel outlined the $330-million spending plan at last night's legislature meeting... noting that the rate will fall to $5.32 per $1,000... the lowest it's been since the county's current form of government has been in place.  This is the first time in a while that a "flat" tax levy... or the amount to be raised by taxes... has been proposed.  It's something most Democrats... and, some Republicans have called for in the wake of rising costs here and nationwide.  He says government needs to be just as responsible with it's tax dollars as families are with their own.  However... Wendel says there are still "scary parts" to the budget... including the fact that anticipated state mandated costs are rising to $113-million.  He says that includes the county having to take on 75% of the administrative costs for the Supplimental Nutrition Assistance Program.  However... he says being fiscally-responsible the past several years is helping the county weather that storm.  The legislature's Audit and Control Committee will hold it's budget meetings the week of Oct. 5 through 8.

Chagnon receives 2026 Hamilton Community Service Award...
The man who has chaired the Chautauqua County Legislature in recent years has been presented a life-time service award from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.  The foundation says it recently celebrated a "lifetime of service" by Ellery's Pierre Chagnon by presenting him with the 2026 John D. Hamilton Community Service Award.  The award annually recognizes an individual whose "dedication, leadership and service have strengthened community spirit and enhanced the quality of life throughout the Chautauqua region."  The chair of the award committee -- Laura Otander -- says "working together is the theme for tonight’s celebration.  There are few people who have demonstrated the ability to work with a team to accomplish significant impact more than Pierre Chagnon."  For more than 40 years... Chagnon has served as a director, board member, board chair, committee chair or president for an extraordinary number of local organizations.  His leadership has helped guide economic development initiatives, strengthen educational institutions, protect Chautauqua Lake and the county’s natural resources, advance community development, support youth programs and improve local government.

Langworthy announces bi-partisan COMPACT Act to spare dogs and cats from being used in biomedical research...
A bi-partisan bill that would revolutionize biomedical research... and, stop the barbaric treatment of dogs and cats bred for testing has been introduced in Congress.  Local Representative Nick Langworthy and fellow lawmaker Mark Pocan were outside the Capitol Wednesday afternoon to announce the "Companion Animal Protection Against Cruel Testing" Act.  They were joined by animal rights advocates and biomedical research professionals in making the announcement.  Langworthy calls it the most "comprehensive effort ever written" to eliminate those inhumane tests.  The congressmen and advocates were joined by four beagle dogs... two from a facility Langworthy saw in Wisconsin... that bred and used the beagles in that way.  He says the dogs and cats had been subjected to testing and even painful surgery to advance "biomedical" research.  Once the animals have served their purpose... they are then terminated.  

City man arrested for alleged assault with a hammer...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person with a hammer early Wednesday morning.  city police say they were called to an eastside address shortly before 1 a.m. for an assault complaint.  Officers say they spoke with the victim on arrival... and, found them with a severe head larceration after being struck.  Police say their investigation determined that 29 year-old Austin Thayer had hit the victim... and, he was later found inside the residence.  While officers were arresting Thayer... he tried to ingest a suspected controlled substance before throwing it into a toilet.  Officers were able to take him into custody... and, during a search... found him in possession of a quantity of fentanyl.  Thayer is charged with second-degree assault... third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... tampering with physical dvidence... and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

WACS District institutes lock-out after Westfield Memorial Hospital reports disorderly person inside...
A report of a disorderly person in the area late this morning led to the Westfield Academy Central Schools to go into a lock-out.  Westfield Police say they... and State Police, along with the Sheriff's Office... were called to Westfield Memorial Hospital about 10 a.m. on a report of a disorderly person inside.  Out of an abundance of caution... police say the Westfield schools activated their Shelter-in-Place, Hold-in-Place... evacuate, lock-out, and lock-down -- or SHELL Protocol to ensure the safety and security of students and staff.  The district activated a lockout... which is a security measure intended to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the school while normal activities continue inside the building.  However... there was no direct threat to the school associated with the incident.  Westfield police say the situation at Westfield Memorial Hospital was resolved without further incident... and, the school lock-out was lifted.

County Legislature to get detailed look at Wendel's 2027 budget proposal tonight...
Chautauqua County lawmakers will see County Executive P.J. Wendel take the wraps off his tentative 2027 budget plan during their monthly meeting in Mayville tonight.  Two legislators from the north county shared their expectations about the presentation, which is slated for 6:30 p.m. at the beginning of the legislature’s monthly meeting.  Dunkirk Democrat Robert Bankoski has been among those pushing for using more the county's undesignated fund balance to lower taxes, and he believes that may happen, because he's been hearing from residents that having a $37-million to $38-million undesignated fund balance is "too high."  Silver Creek Republican Tom Harmon believes most people will be "pleasantly surprised" with Wendel's proposed spending plan after getting a "peek" at the budget.  Wendel's office says his presentation will reflect his "focus on affordability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars."  Wednesday's presentation is themed "Putting Money Back in Your Wallet."

BPU GM proposes local law to create new, "Digital Infrastructure Division..."
A new, sixth division is being proposed by the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities that will own, and operate the BPU's new, open-access fiber network.  Work on creating that network is continuing through October.  BPU General Manager Kris Sellstrom explained the proposal at Monday night's City Council work session.  Sellstrom is asking for a local law allowing creation of what will be called the Digital Infrastructure Division... and if you sign up the end of October you get 90-days of free service.  So far... he says out of 4,000 sign-ups they've only had 150 people opt out.  In addition to owning and operating the fiber network... Sellstrom says the new division would also support future digital infrastructure initiatives.  He says the board will govern the new division which will be maintained as a financially self-sustaining operation separated from the BPU’s other divisions... and, will be supported by users of the system.  Under the open-access model... Sellstrom says the BPU will own and operate the fiber-optic infrastructure while participating Internet Service Providers will offer retail internet service, billing and customer support.  The ISPs are currently FiberSpark and SumoFiber with various plans and rates offered by the providers.  For more information... go-on-line to Jamestownbpu.com/fiber.

Sheldon announces run for Chautauqua County Leg. in Jamestown's District 12...
A current member of the Jamestown City Council has announced he's running for the Chautauqua County Legislature this Fall.  Ward-One Republican Brent Sheldon says he's running for the District 12 seat because he "knows the people and the issues well.  I will work to reduce county taxes, create job opportunities... and, increase public safety for our residents."  Sheldon says he's been a City Councilman for 15 years... and, has served as chairman of the council's Finance... and, Public Safety Committee.s  He's currently on the finance and housing committees.  The City Council is not up for a vote this year, but, will be in 2027.  Before retiring in 2019... Sheldon worked for the county's Department of Health and Human Services as a public health sanitarian.  He's running against incumbant Democrat Fred Larson for the District 12 seat in November. 

Jamestown woman arrested for southside domestic incident...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly damaging another person's property during a weekend domestic dispute.  City police say they were called to a southside address shortly before 5 a.m. last Sunday... and, spoke with the parties involved.  They soon after arrested 30 year-old Teanna Morano for fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Morano was taken to the city jail... pending arraignment.

Jamestown receives "clean" audit for 2025... but, there are concerns going forward...
The city of Jamestown will have about a $3.3-million "cushion" to soften the impact of cost increases in the 2027 budget.  However... if that amount in the undesignated fund balance falls to zero... it could create a deficit situation down the road.  That from the city's third-party auditing firm... Drescher and Malecki... during Monday night's City Council work session.  Partner Carl Widmer... adds, though... that Jamestown's not alone in that boat.  Widmer says they do similar audits for other municipalities, and they will offer suggests on how to deal with that.  Senior Manager Jared Pickard laid out the financials from the 2025 audit... noting that revenues were up significantly from $45.3-million in 2024, to $49.2-million last year.  Pickard says there was a state aid increases of about $2-million, and some grant funding.  There was also a property tax increase in 2026.  However... Pickard adds that expenses also increased from $46.2-million to $48.7-million last year.  He says that was due mainly to employee benefits and salaries.  The auditors also noted that the city is using $2.8-million from undesignated fund balance for the current year's budget.

City woman arrested following domestic in which she allegedly damaged victim's property...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly damaging another person's property during a weekend domestic dispute.  City police say they were called to a southside address shortly before 5 a.m. last Sunday... and, spoke with the parties involved.  They soon after arrested 30 year-old Teanna Morano for fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Morano was taken to the city jail... pending arraignment.

Man from Jamestown arrested for violating order of protection...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly being found walking with a woman who had an order of protection against him.  City police say a patrol on Jamestown's southside spotted 27 year-old Michael Bane walking with the female victim shortly after Noon Monday.  Officers took Bane into custody without incident.  He was held pending arraignment on one count of first-degree criminal contempt.

Hochul announces Energy Rebate Checks to go out this week...
Governor Kathy Hochul has announce that energy rebate checks are going out this week to 8.2-million New York households.  In a press release... Hochul says the first checks were mailed Monday... and, the process will continue through December.  The Democrat says the current year's budget included a one-time, $1-billion "Protecting Our Wallets Energy Rebate -- or POWER --  to help provide needed relief in the face of federal tariffs that have increased the cost of living across the board... as well as President Trump’s war in Iran that has New Yorkers now paying on average more than $4.40 a gallon for regular, unleaded... a more than 45% jump since the war began.  She says the POWER checks will provide $200 to joint filers with incomes under $150,000... and $150 to joint filers with incomes between $150,000 and $300,000.  Single filers with incomes under $150,000 will receive $100.  The rebates will be issued as advanced credit checks and will be mailed out between September and December.

Gies says federal government needs to get it right on AI regulations...
The Democrat challenger for Congress in the 23rd District says the government needs to put some kind of guardrails on the development and use of Artificial Intelligence.  Olean's Aaron Gies is a professor of Theology at St. Bonaventure University... and, he harkens back to what Pope Leo said a while back that AI should be regulated with "humanity in mind..." including a "Bill of Rights" where people retain control of our own likeness... or intellectual property.  Gies says the notion that, unless we go "full speed" ahead on AI... China will control it all and will "win.." is a false dilemna.  He says eventually everyone will have it.  As for data centers... Gies say he's happy to see New York pumping the brakes on their development... but, feels the federal government should have some role as well because local communities don't often have the resources to do the full-diligence needed to make sure it's in the community's best interests.  Gies... who also has the Working Families endorsement to run for Congress... was our guest on last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program.  We have been in touch with incumbant Republican Nick Langworthy's office about scheduling for him... but, have not heard back as yet.  

Crime Stoppers offers up to $2,500 reward for information that solves 20 year-old double homicide in Dunkirk...
Crime Stoppers of Western New York is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of whoever is responsible for the double murder of two Dunkirk men 20 years ago.  In a recently issued bulletin... Crime Stoppers say it's offering up to 25-hundred dollars for information on the Nov. 3 of 2006 double homicide of Jerry Nickerson and Mark Trautman at their home on Lake Shore Drive East in the town of Dunkirk.  With the 20th anniversary of the double-murder coming... officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.  You can call Crime Stoppers at (716) 867-6161... or download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App "Buffalo Tips" from the Apple or Android stores.

Two injured in Busti when SUV loses it's breaks... and, crashes into apartment house...
The crash of a Sports Utility Vehicle into an apartment building on Fairmount Avenue -- west of Lakewood -- sent two people to the hospital.  Lakewood-Busti Police say the driver of the SUV reported losing their brakes as they were northbound on Route 474 near the intersection with Route 394 about 1:30 p.m. last Friday.  Chief Matthew Bentley says today that the vehicle crossed 394 at a high rate of speed, and went into the building -- just south of Smith Boy's Marina.  Bentley says the driver was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for treatment... while a passenger was flown to UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pa.  Their conditions and names were not available this morning.  Bentley says no one inside the building was hurt.  Charges are pending.  Lakewood-Busti Police were joined at the scene by Lakewood fire rescue... Chautauqua County Sheriff's officers... and, the county's Tactical Rescue Team.

North county woman arrested for child endangerment following weekend incident...
A woman from Forestville has been arrested for alleged "conduct committed against a minor" this past weekend.  Sheriff's Officers say they investigated a complaint against 36 year-old Chelsea Richter... and, determined that she engaged in conduct believed harmful to a child's welfare.  Deputies say they found Richter early Saturday morning... and, tried to take her into custody.  Following a brief physical altercation... officers finally arrested her on one count each of endangering the welfare of a child... second-degree unlawfully dealing with a child... and, resisting arrest.  Deputies also searched Richter... and, found her in possession of .7 grams of cocaine... 2-grams of methamphetamines... and, other items.  She was also charged with fifth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment. 

RV driver faces several charges -- including DWI -- following vehicle complaint...
A vehicle complaint early last Saturday morning led to the arrest of a Cherry Creek woman on drunk driving and other charges.  Sheriff's deputies say they received the complaint just after 6 a.m. Saturday for an RV motor home spotted on Spoden Road in the town of Pomfret.  Officers say they located the vehicle... and, stopped it.  They identified the operator as 33-year-old Caitlin Lupino... and, their investigation determined that Lupino was driving while intoxicated.  She also faces other charges including third-degree Aggravated unlicensed operation... driving without insurance... and, several other vehicle and traffic violations.  Lupino was taken into custody and transported to the Pomfret substation for processing. 

Gillibrand says some AI regulations are being acted on... but, adds it's not enough, and not soon enough...
Many concerns and questions remain about Artificial Intelligence... commonly known as "AI."  However... should it be more regulated to ensure that it stays within guardrails... or out of the hands of people with malicious intentions?  Many in Congress feel as some major AI developers do that there need to be regulations in place.  One is U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York... who says there are potentially several benefits to having AI... among those being disease cures, and other applications.  However... she says in the hands of "bad actors" it could be used to develop chemical and bio-weapons -- among others.  There are proposals in Congress to regulate... or further regulate AI.  Gillibrand... who is on the Armed Services Committee... says some of her proposals were included in the most recent defense bill... the key one being "Human in the Loop" legislation.  However... in the defense bill... she says that was replaced with "Human Oversight."  The Democrat says the concern there is that AI could still go "rogue" even with human oversight.  Over the weekend... A-P reported that AI developers are striving for self-improvement, aiming for technology that can enhance itself. 

Ferguson believes NYS framework for data center development is the way to go...
Fredonia's mayor says he has gone through New York State's Host Community Investment Framework for Data Center Development "with a fine-toothed comb."  Mike Ferguson adds that he believes it's a great starting point for communities across the state who are considering such facilities.  Ferguson says the framework announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul has all the guidelines contained in a typical business contract... including what happens with a center if it goes out of business, and who is going to clean it up.  Ferguson adds the framework also allows communities to say whether they want a center or not.  He says there have been some discussions in parts of Chautauqua County about potential data centers.  However, he cautions communities who want to host them to "know who they're dealing with."  Hochul announced the framework amid a one-year statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers.  Meanwhile, Ferguson says he will ask for a similar moratorium for Fredonia because there are too many questions about their operations that still need to be answered.  Ferguson took part in one of several data center roundtables hosted by Hochul this summer.

Panama man arrested for criminal mischief...
A man from Panama has been arrested for allegedly damaging property inside a home during a reported altercation.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a home on Madden Road in the town of Harmony just after 9 a.m. Sunday.  Deputies say their investigation showed that 33-year-old Kyle Elderkin intentionally damaged the property inside the residence... and, he was arreste for fourth-degree criminal mischief.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.

Dunkirk police continue search for murder suspect...
The Dunkirk Police Department is continuing to look for the city man who is the suspect in a June homicide on South Gazelle Street.  Police Chief Doug Switzer says this week that cooperation from the community was key in identifying 24-year-old Tywon Wright as a person of interest in the killing of Delani Williams.  Switzer says their investigation found some evidence against Wright... along with a witness statement.  The warrant charges Wright with second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Switzer says his department has received some tips on where Wright might be, and is following up.  He hopes that Wright will turn himself in... and, adds if any family knows of his whereabouts, or how to contact him... to do so, and have him surrender to authorities.  Anyone with information on Wright's whereabouts is asked to call the Dunkirk Police Department at 366-2266.  Switzer says tips can be left anonymously.

Man arrested for shoplifting at Lakewood Wal-Mart SuperCenter... on consecutive days and at the same time...
A 45 year-old man was arrested on consecutive days earlier this week for allegedly shoplifting at the Lakewood Wal-Mart SuperCenter.  Lakewood-Busti Police say they were called to the Fairmount Avenue location about 4:15 p.m. -- on both Tuesday and Wednesday of this week -- after Randall Crocker was spotted by Wal-Mart security putting items in a cart... and, walking out without paying for them.  Since he was arrested for a second time... officers charged Crocker for third-degree burglary... and, petty larceny.  He was issued an appearance ticket for Busti Town Court.

Gillibrand calls on Trump Administration to release LIHEAP funding in approved CR...
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is demanding that the Trump Adminstration release funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program... otherwise known as "LIHEAP."  The New York Democrat announced Thursday that she had written a letter to both the president and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.  Gillibrand says home heating oil is following spikes in oil and gasoline... and, adds the money was already approved in the most recent continuing resolution.  She says there's an estimate $360-million for New Yorkers.  However... Gillibrand says it needs to be released to be available so applications can be received... and, the funds distributed.  She says New Yorkers -- "are already feeling the pain of President Trump’s economy at the grocery store, the gas pump, and the pharmacy.  Now, as temperatures begin to drop, they’re getting hit again: this time at the thermostat."  Gillibrand also made one other request in the letter... and that was to bring a quick end to the war in Iran that has contributed to higher costs.  She says the war, and it's disruptions... just recently pushed crude oil above $100 per barrel.  That's driven the average cost of heating oil in New York to $6.14 per gallon -- a 66% increase over last year.

Gies talks 100 town halls, AI, data centers, and more during Glenora Radio election preview...
The Democrat challenger in this Fall's election for the 23rd Congressional District is continuing to host in person, town hall meetings leading up to election day.  Olean's Aaron Gies says he's now completed about three-dozen of those sessions across the district... and, hopes to have hosted 100 by Nov. 3.  He says he's doing it to draw a contrast with his opponent... incumbant Republican Nick Langworthy.  During his two terms, Langworthy has hosted monthly telephone town halls.  However... Gies adds it's also important to meet people directly, and hear what they have to say.  He says Social Media will only get you so many people.  Gies says affordability remains the biggest issue he's heard about on the campaign trail.  He says he got a lot of his values from his parents while growing up in a working class family in High Point, NC.  Gies says the key one was treat people the way you want to be treated.  Gies kicked off his 100 town halls at the Prendergast Library in Jamestown earlier this Summer.  He made his comments for this coming weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.  

Pair from Jamestown arrested for alleged shoplifting at Lakewood Wal-Mart store...
Two people from Jamestown have been arrested for allegedly stealing merchandise from the Lakewood Wal-Mart SuperCenter.  Lakewood-Busti police say they responded to a shoplifting complaint at the store just before 5:30 p.m. Thursday.  Officers say they found both 25 year-old Keanu Perez and 36 year-old Brooke Deponceau still inside the store when they arrived.  Both Perez and Deponceau were found to have passed all points of sale with the stolen items... and, each is charged with petty larceny.  They were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court.

City man arrested for violating order of protection by showing up at child's school...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection by showing up at one of the city's public schools.  Jamestown police were called to the scene shortly after 8 a.m. last Friday, Sept. 11, and, received information that 29 year old Dakota Raymond was at the school in violation of the "stay-away" order involving a juvenile victim who was at the school.  Upon arrival... officers say they located Raymond and took him into custody without incident.  Police were also told that Raymond had an active arrest warrant
for violating the same order of protection at the same time the previous Friday.  He was arrested for second-degree criminal contempt... and, held pending arraignment.

City man arrested following westside domestic violence incident...
A man from Jamestown faces Felony charges following an alleged domestic violence incident involving a pregnant woman.  City police say they were called to a West Fifth Street location about 1 p.m. Wednesday and saw 21 year-old Tysean Mays pulling the woman into her home by the hair.  Officers say they were able to chase Mays into the residence, and separated the pair.  However... Mays fought with arresting officers before being taken into custody.  He is charged with second-degree harassment... second-degree unlawful imprisonment... and, resisting arrest.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Several north county fire departments respond to blaze at former White Village Restaurant...
Eight north county departments responded to the scene of a major fire -- just west of the city of Dunkirk -- early Wednesday afternoon.  Chautauqua County fire dispatchers say Dunkirk firefighters were called to the former White Village Restaurant about 12:15 p.m., and, were joined by Fredonia, West Dunkirk, Brocton, Bay Creek, East Dunkirk, Sheridan and Stockton crews.  Route 5 in the area was shut-down due to the fire.  The Sheriff's Office... state Police and County EMS also responded. 

Teen from Falconer arrested for allegedly slashing/damaging tires in the village last week...
A Falconer teenager has been arrested for allegedly slashing the tires of several vehicles in the village about a week ago.  Ellicott Town Police say they responded to a report of an 18-year-old using a sharp instrument to damage the tires a week ago on Tuesday, Sept. 8.  Officers say they found that all four tires on some of the vehicles had been damaged... and, tires on two cars belonging to one household also had damaged tires.  Police say a witness was able to identify the 18-year-old, and video footage also confirmed the identify of the teenager.  Police did not publicly identify the teen... who's been charged with second-degree criminal mischief.

Jamestown man arrested on DWAI-Drugs, speeding following single-car crash last month in the town of Ellicott...
A city man is accused of driving while under the influence of drugs in connection with a single-car accident last month in the town of Ellicott.  Town Police say they arrested 36 year-old Lucas Rose earlier this month following an investigation into the crash... which occured o the Peck-Settlement Road shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 15.  Officers say Rose was northbound at an unsafe speed... and, failed to keep right.  Police say the car crossed the center line and left the roadway before striking multiple trees and went into a wooded area.  Officers say their investigation turned up a quantity of methamphetamine... and, that Rose was driving under the influence.  He's charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... driving while ability impaired by drugs... speed not reasonable and prudent... failure to keep right... driving on the shoulder... and, having an unregistered motor vehicle.  He was issued appearance tickets for Ellicott Town Court.

City Council, Mayor, discuss possible updates to regulate e-bikes, e-scooters, and bicycles in general...
The chairman of the Jamestown City Council's Public Safety Committee says the number of nuisance issues with E-Bikes and E-Scooters has gotten worse in recent months.  Those are the feelings of At-Large Councilman Jeremy Engquist that he spoke to during Monday night's Council Work Session... and, Mayor Kim Ecklund says the city attorney's office is looking into it.... noting they have a copy of the charter and case study on the matter.  She says part of the issue is it's "more complicated than we think."  There have been questions raised about enforcement... but, City Police Chief Scot Forster says his officers are enforcing the law the best they can.  However... he says often times that can be difficult because bikes are move manuverable.  He says they've discussed bringing back the JPD Bike Patrol... and, possibly adding some E-Bikes to that.  However... he say certifications are needed... and, the officer doing that training recently retired... and, they're in the process of getting someone new certified.  Forster says they want to eventually bring back their bike patrols allow officers to get out into the community more.

United Way of Chautauqua County kick's off 2026 General Campaign...
The United Way of Chautauqua County officially launched its annual fundraising campaign Wednesday afternoon on Chautauqua Lake.  Executive Director Amy Rohler says officials decided to hold the unique kickoff on the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry  and is open to the public.  Campaign Co-Chair Danielle Patti says the ferry was created in 1811 as a way to connect people and resources in the county, and that's what they try to do through the United Way.  Director of Growth and Engagement Leslie Wille says the theme for this year's campaign is "United is the Way."  United Way Campaign Co-Chair David Maternowski says he's grown to really appreciate what the United Way does since he first was involved as a young person in his early 20s.  The campaign goal is $1.7-million.

City woman arrested for alleged domestic incident...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly damaging another person's property following a domestic incident on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene just after 11:30 p.m. Monday... and, made contact with the victim... and, the suspect, 38 year-old Mary Hetrick.  Officers say their investigation showed that Hetrick had caused more than $250 in damage during the dispute.  She was arrested for third-degree criminal mischief... and, was taken into custody without incident.  Hetrick was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

City leaders looking at strengthening regulations and enforcement of bicycle, and E-Bikes and E-Scooters...
The head of the Jamestown City Council's Public Safety Committee says the number of nuisance issues with E-Bikes and E-Scooters has worsened in the past few months.  That from Committee Chairman Jeremy Engquist during Monday night's Council Work Session.  Engquist says it was a major focus of their earlier committee meeting... and, he adds "in the past six months or so," (he's) seen "a huge uptick" in issues" with the new mode of transportation.  There have been questions raised about enforcement... but, City Police Chief Scot Forster says his officers are enforcing the law the best they can.  However... he says often times that can be difficult because the bikes and scooters are more manuverable, and, by the time an officer responds... the suspect is gone.  Forster says they've discussed bringing back the JPD Bike Patrol... and, possibly adding some E-Bikes to that.  However... he say certifications are needed... and, the officer doing that training recently retired.  He says a new person is going through that now.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says Corporation Counsel Eliot Raimando and an assistant are looking at State and other regulations to hopefully draw up something that has more teeth in it.

Wendel pleased to see Cassadaga, and other Job Corps back and being funded by the federal government...
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel says the Trump Administration's recent decision to rescind its plan to shut down Job Corps centers nationwide is a "great save" for the local Job Corps site near Cassadaga.  Last month... the administration and Job Corps reached a settlement that includes protections against the closing of Job Corps campuses and halting their operations.  Wendel says that will save approximately 200 jobs locally... and, says it's an historic site that was originally a hospital used to treat cases to Tuberculosis.  The Lakewood Republican says the program has done a great job of training young people... but, also noted concerns about maintaining its efficiency.  Last year... Job Corps supporters rallied in Stockton to push elected officials to save Cassadaga Job Corps following the U.S. Department of Labor's announcement of a pause in the operation of the federal program.  U.S. Senator Charles Schumer also traveled to Jamestown, voicing his support for Job Corps.

City woman arrested for burglary, violating orders of protection...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection... and, on arrest warrants including one for burglary.  City police say they were called to a westside address shortly after 12 p.m. Saturday for the stay-away order violation.  Officers found that 24-year-old Jaylise Calderon was actively violating an order of protection requiring her to stay away from a male victim at the scene.  Police also found she was wanted from a previous incident on charges of second-degree burglary... petty larceny... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  Police say Calderon was also sought on a second-degree criminal contempt charge from earlier in the day Saturday.  She is now charged with second-degree burglary...petty larceny... and, three counts of second-degree criminal contempt... and, was held pending arraignment.

NW Pa. woman arrested for speeding, and allowing juvenile to be on roof of moving car at Chaut. Mall parking lot...
A Pennsylvania woman has been arrested for speeding in the Chautauqua Mall parking lot in Lakewood with a youth on the roof of the vehicle.  Lakewood-Busti Polic were called to the scene at 318 Fairmount Ave. just before 5:30 p.m. Sunday for a reckless driving complaint.  Officers say they found the car in question... and, spotted two youths hanging out the windows... and, one on the roof of the fast-moving vehicle.  Officers stopped the car... and, arrested the driver, 19 year-old Gracie Monroe of Spartenburg, Pa.  Monroe is charged with one count of reckless driving... and, three counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  She was issued appearance tickets for Busti Town Court.

Ribbon is cut on new JAY Wellness Center at SUNY JCC by college and Jamestown-Area YMCA...
The ribbon has been cut on the first-phase of a new, wellness collaboration between the Jamestown-Area YMCA and Jamestown Community College.  The event was held at the new JAY Wellness Center at the college's Physical Education building and the Hultquist Library building.  College President Daniel DeMarte calls it an investment in facilities... and, people.  DeMarte says -- "it creates opportunities for students, striving to balance academics, work, and personal well-being.  It provides additional access to health and wellness resources for employees, and community members."  Discussions between the college and Jamestown Y began a few years ago.  However... interm "Y" Chief Executive Officer John Barber says discussions about a three-phased approach between the two parties began in earnest late last year.  Barber says they -- "saw an opportunity for two long-standing community organizations to bring each their strengths together" to bring what they provided to "the wider community."  Officials says the overall project totals $48-million... and, will include development of an early learning center next year on the JCC Campus... and, then a completely new, SUNY JCC and Jamestown-Area YMCA Wellness facility in 2029.  

Brocton man killed in single-car accident in town of Chautauqua Saturday...
A man from Brocton has died in a single-car crash in the town of Chauauqua.  Sheriff's officers say they responded to the accident on Burdick Road in DeWittville just before 7:30 a.m. last Saturday.  Deputies determined the car... driven by 44 year-old Ryan Evans... was northbound when the vehicle went off the road... and, slammed into an embankment and, then struck a tree.  Officers say Evans later succumbed to his injuries.

City man arrested on warrant for Sept. 4th stabbing near Riverwalk trail...
A man from Jamestown has now been arrested in connection with the stabbing of another man near the city's Riverwalk Trail earlier this month.  Jamestown police say they have now arrested 35-year-old David Rodriguez for the stabbing... which seriously injured the victim... the late evening of Friday, Sept. 4.  The victim was found at the 7 South Main St. location... treated, and taken to the hospital for further care.  Police further investigated... and, a warrant was issued for Rodriquez's arrest.  He was taken into custody on one count of first-degree assault.  Rodriguez was arraigned and taken to the county jail pending further court action.

Woman from Jamestown arrested for drug possession following traffic stop for unlicensed driving...
A woman from Jamestown whose license had been suspended has been arrested following a traffic stop in Jamestown for also allegedly being in possession of illegal drugs.  City police say a patrol in the area of East Sixth and Lincoln Streets spotted a car... driven by 43 year-old Anne Robbins... operating the vehicle with her driving privileges revoked shortly after 9 a.m. Sunday.  Officers conducted a traffic stop... during which they found Robbins allegedly in possession of a quantity of methamphetamine and packaging materials.  Police arrested her for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminal possession of drug paraphernalia... improper plates... having an uninspected motor vehile... and unregistered motor vehicle, and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.  Robbins was held pending arraignment.

Man from Jamestown arrested on multiple credit card theft-related charges...
A city man is accused of stealing multiple credit cards... and, using at least one at a business on Jamestown's eastside late last week.  City police say a patrol in the area of East Fifth Street spotted 19 year-old Connor Dale about 9 a.m. last Friday... and, knew he was sought on a Felony arrest warrant.  Officers say the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office sought Dale on one count each of grand larceny and criminal possession of stolen property.  City police say they also had charges pending against Dale for allegedly using a stolen credit card the previous day at the unidentified business.  As Dale was taken into custody... officers found him in possession of four additional credit cards belonging to three separate victims.  The credit cards had been stolen from multiple vehicles in the early morning hours of last Friday.  Dale was taken to the city jail on the warrant... one count of third-degree identity theft... and, five counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.

Ecklund says details still being worked out for memorial for late Councilman Tony Dolce in the city...
Plans for an appropriate memorial to late Jamestown City Councilman Tony Dolce are taking shape.  That from Mayor Kim Ecklund... who says she's been discussing what to do with Dolce's widow, Anne, and their two adult children.  During the most recent City Council meeting... three members of the public spoke to the need to memorialize Dolce... who had been the longest-serving member of council.  Ecklund says they've discussed the plan, and the family has agreed to it.  As for the suggestion of something for City Councilwoman Vickeye James... who passed away during the COVID pandemic... Ecklund pointed out that something was done during the following Juneteenth celebration.  She says that celebration... and, improvements to Jackson-Taylor Park... were very important to James, and her family.  She says that memorial includes a small group of trees with a plaque honoring James at the park.  Both James and Dolce's passings were sudden and unexpected.  Dolce passed away in his sleep this past July 18 at home. 

City woman arrested on multiple order of protection, burglary-related charges...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection... and, on arrest warrants including one for burglary.  City police say they were called to a westside address shortly after 12 p.m. last Saturday for the stay-away order violation.  Officers found that 24-year-old Jaylise Calderon was actively violating an order of protection requiring her to stay away from a male victim at the scene.  Police also found she was wanted from a previous incident on charges of second-degree burglary... petty larceny... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  Police say Calderon was also sought on a second-degree criminal contempt charge from earlier in the day Saturday.  She is now charged with second-degree burglary...petty larceny... and, three counts of second-degree criminal contempt... and, was held pending arraignment.

City man arrested for violating order of protection at JPS school...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection by showing up at one of the city's public schools.  Jamestown police were called to the scene shortly after 8 a.m. last Friday... and, received information that 29 year old Dakota Raymond was at the school in violation of the "stay-away" order involving a juvenile victim who was at the school.  Upon arrival... officers say they located Raymond and took him into custody without incident.  Police were also told that Raymond had an active arrest warrant for doing the same the week prior.  He was held pending arraignment for second-degree criminal contempt.

JMI building in Falconer heavily-damaged by afternoon fire...
Flames have heavily-damaged a concrete block building in Falconer used by Jamestown MacAdam to produce concrete materials.  Falconer firefighters were initially called to the JMI site on New York Avenue... in the industrial corridor... about 1:30 p.m. Friday.  First Assistant Falconer Fire Chief Avery Faulkner says crews found the structure fully-ablaze when they arrived... and, mutual aid companies were called in.  Faulkner says they first made sure everyone was out of the building.  He says workers were inside the building when the flames broke out... but, everyone was able to get out safely.  Crews were still using an aerial hose to pour water on hot spots at 4 p.m.  Faulkner says the Board of Public Utilities responded quickly to turn off electric power to the building, and help with providing the water they needed.  The cause is under investigation.  Mutual aid was called in from Kennedy... Kiantone... Celoron... Frewsburg... and, Gerry.  Faulkner says county EMS was also called in... along with the county's HazMat Team.

Dunkirk "9/11" rememberance ceremony kick's off 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks...
Remembrance ceremonies have been taking place nationwide on the 25th anniversary of the terror attacks of September 11, 2001... including the Dunkirk Fire Department's headquarters on Eagle Street.  Professional Firefighters Local 616 President, Patrick Ossman, said the effects of the attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Shanskville, Pennsylvania are still felt today.  That includes the responders who have died or are sick from illnesses related to that day... such as firefighters, police, rescue crews, sanitation workers and others "who worked tirelessly in the aftermath."  City Fire Chief Nick Barter expressed the importance of continuing to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on the day of the attacks.  The ceremony also included firefighter Eric Loman ringing a bell in memory of the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on 9/11.

Son of former WJTN employees, Phil Nalbone, described that day -- "9/11" -- to us...
On that day 25 years ago... Jamestown native Phil Nalbone was a mile north of Ground Zero.  Phil told our Terry Frank on the phone that day that he heard the first plane strike the World Trade Center, and saw the second from a conference room window at his office in the financial district.  A few minutes later, he got a cellphone call through to his mom, Kathy Roselle, who worked at WJTN at that time... and, he also spoke with Terry about the chaos and confusion that followed that.  It was right at the time one of the towers collapsed.  Five years ago... just prior to the 20th anniversary... Phil sat down with our Dennis Webster to talk about how being that close to the 9/11 catastrophe affected him -- to this day -- mainly about the "countless" number of people who jumped from the upper floors of the towers to escape the inferno below them.  Though he had to walk a couple of hours to a point of refuge on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Nalbone was physically unhurt.  However... psychologically, he says it was a couple of years before he was 'fully functional' after what he experienced on the morning of 9/11.

Sister of Amy King spoke on 20th Anniversary about her loss, but, also what the nation went through...
Chautauqua County has another close connection to that day.  Celoron's Amy King was a flight attendent on board United Flight 175... which was flown by hijackers into the second trade center tower.  After the county's 20th anniversary ceremony in Mayville... Amy's sister, Kelly, told me she's more focused on what we went through as a nation on September 11, 2001.  Following the program in Mayville... Kelly spoke about her sister, and why it's important to "Never Forget."  Once she got through her grief a little more, she appreciated more what everyone went through on that day.  Kelly King admitted there were times it seems like "just yesterday."  She stressed the need to "Never Forget" and, that's why she brought her 15 year-old step-son to the 20th anniversary program.

Ribbon cut on new, New York Medical Center at former Lake Shore Hospital...
Behavioral health and addiction treatment services are returning to northern Chautauqua County, more than five years after the closing of Lake Shore Hospital.  Officials from New York Medical Center, along with several local officials, were on hand to cut the ribbon Thursday afternoon on the organization's new facility at the former hospital in Irving.  NYMC Chief Executive Officer Ray Manning it's a key step to providing services in the area to those who need it... with the first 25 beds opening in the community.  The availability of 25 beds is just the first phase of NYMC's operations.  Principal Manager Nick DiTommaso spoke about the organization's vision to create a "new place" for behavioral care since buying the facility in April 2025.  State Senator George Borrello acknowledged the work that was put in to market the facility after Lake Shore Hospital's closure in early 2020.  NYMC will begin accepting patients at the new facility on Monday.

Ohio man arrested in connection with fatal, hit and run accident on State Thruway...
An Ohio man has been arrested in connction with Wednesday morning's fatal, hit and run accident on the State Thruway in the town of Sheridan.  State Police in Jamestown say 34 year-old Devante Aaron Jones of Euclid, Ohio was arrested in the town of Ripley shortly after 4 p.m. Wednesday.  Jones is accused of hitting and killing a man found on the roadway near his parked vehicle.  That man has not been identified.  Jones was taken to the county jail on one count of leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in a death... and, he was arraigned and send to the county jail on $100,000 cash bail.

City man arrested for alleged harassment of family on Jamestown's westside...
A man from Jamestown was arrested Thursday morning after allegedly yelling threats to a woman and her son outside a westside business.  City police were called to the scene about 7:45 a.m. on a harassment complaint.  On arrival... officers say they spoke with the female victim... who reported that an unknown white male approached her car, and began yelling the threats at her and her 11-year-old son while they were in the vehicle.  The man... later identified as 56-year-old Christopher Frederick... then entered the business, where he began yelling at two female juveniles who were related to the original victim.  After reviewing photographs of the man... police were able to identify Frederick... and, they went to his home.  Police say they got into a brief struggle with Frederick befor taking him into custody on charges of second-degree harassment... two counts of endangering the welfare of a child... and, resisting arrest.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Man from Sheridan arrested for DWI following rollover crash in town...
A town of Sheridan man faces a drunk driving charge following a single-car, rollover accident in mid-July in the north county town.  Sheriff's officers say 60 year-old Dale Prince had to be hospitalized following the crash at the intersection of Routes 20 and 39 about 2:30 p.m. last July 14.  Prince was taken to Brook's Hospital following the accident.  He's now been charged with DWI... Operating with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher... moving from lane unsafely... and having an unregistered motor vehicle.  Prince was issued appearance tickets for Sheridan Town Court.

Busti Gala Days now underway in at Busti Firemen's Grounds...
The annual Busti Gala Days are back again -- starting tonight -- with three days of rides, vendors, food and music at the Busti Firemen's Grounds.  Fire Department Treasurer Janet Beckerink says it all begins at 5 p.m. Thursday and, will continue through next Saturday night.  Beckerink says the Gala Days -- which had gone away many years ago -- initially returned for the town's 200th birthday a few years ago.  She says the rides are in place... and, you can buy one ticket for unlimited rides during each session.  Beckerink says they'll have about 10 to 12 rides during the event with "something for everyone."  She says there'll be no fees for parking and admission.  However... the ride tickets are $25 each.  There will also be a beer tent and other features.  Beckerink says proceeds will help the fire department with critical vehicle and equipment costs... including a new fire engine.  The hours on today and Friday will be 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and, on Saturday they're 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., and, later from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Music on tonight will be provided by the Old Dawg Bluegrass Band from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  On Friday... it'll be "Smokin' 45 presented by McCandless Well Drilling... and, on Saturday, the 12th "Two for Flinching" will be peforming from 6 to 10 p.m. during the second session.  Also on Saturday morning... Beckerink says they'll have their first start for the Dice Run... and, pre-registration is still open.  For more information... go to their website at bustifire.com

Fredonia man arrested for DWAI and, speeding in Cassadaga...         
A man from Fredonia has been arrested on driving while under the influence of marijuana... and, other charges following a traffic stop in Cassadaga.  Sheriff's officers say they conducted the stop on Route 60 just after 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1... for a speeding vehicle.  Deputies identified the driver as 23 year-old Caydin Dejohn... who was also allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance.  Dejohn was taken into custody and later released with appearance tickets for Pomfret Town Court for speed in zone, consumption of cannabis in a motor vehicle, unsafe backing, possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence.

City man arrested for shoplifting and public lewdness at store in Brooklyn Square...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting from a business in Brooklyn Square... and, exposing himself to an adult and child.  City police say they were called to Family Dollar at 41 South Main Street for an alleged theft shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday.  Officers determined that 41 year-old Joseph Snyder had stolen merchandise from the store... and, they arrested him before he could leave the business.  They also found that he had exposed himself to the adult and child while outside the business.  Snyder was arrested for petty larceny... two counts of public lewdness... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  He was arraigned in city court... and, released pending a future court appearance.